Dhrang fair is a very popular fair held in the Gujarat state of India. Dhrang is celebrated in the honour of Saint Mekaran Dada. Mekaran Dada served the community with great love and commitment and won their devotion. He was supposed to be the incarnation of Lakshmanji. As his Samadhi lie in this place, large number of followers from different parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan assemble in Dhran to pay homage and participate in religious rituals.
Location of Dhrang Fair
The fair is organised in the small village of Dhrang. This small village is situated in the extreme north-west of Kutchh District in Gujarat. The village is on the border to Pakistan and is about 40 km from Bhuj.
History of Dhrang Fair
Born in 1720 AD, Saint Mekaran Dada founded his Ashram in Dhrang. Saint Mekan Dada spent all his life serving the cause of humanity. He preached against untouchability and superstitions. Legend has it that Saint Mekan Dada had a dog by the name motio and a donkey by the name Lalio who used to go into the Rann daily, with water and food to quench the thirst and show the direction to the lost travellers.
Acknowledged for his simple living and high thinking, saint Mekan Dada left behind a legacy of his preaching, which earned him the esteem and devotion of generations to come. At Dhrang, he gave up his life, where the fair is held every year for three days. The Ahir community considers Saint Mekaran Dada as God. A large fair is also held every year on Magh Vad.
Attractions of Dhrang Fair
The fair has become one of the important tourist attraction centres of Gujarat. Dhrang fair is especially well-known for the samadhi of Menkan Dada. People from various neighbouring villages and cities participate in the fair to display their products here. Dhrang kutch handicrafts and traditional items are also the highlight of the fair. Buyers can have a look on the elegant embroidered work displayed and sold in the fair. In addition to these items, some donkeys are also sold among local villagers. Folk dances and traditional eateries are other attractions of this fair.