Fairs of Gujarat are symbolic of religious, social and cultural aspirations. A number of fairs are organized in the state, which are the representatives of vibrant cultural heritage of the state. They also promote the agriculture, industry and commerce of the state through trade fairs. Mythological facts as well as the festive spirits that are scattered in the place which further augment the charm of fairs of Gujarat.
Bhavnath Mahadev Fair
It is organized in the Bhavnath Mahadev temple, located in Junagadh city of Gujarat at the foot of Mount Girnar. This five day fair is held during Mahashivratri and attracts a number of tourists from far off places. Religious beliefs state that during the fair, Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine. The fair is also accompanied by exquisite folk dances and music.
Chitra-Vichitra Fair
Chitra-Vichitra fair is the biggest tribal fair, held near Poshina village of Gujarat. The fair is held at the confluence of three rivers namely Vyakul, Akul and Sabarmati and is mostly attended by Pargi, Khair, Gamar and Garasia tribes. Numerous Bhils, another tribe, are also attracted towards the fair who visit from neighbouring districts. Folk songs and dances are performed in the fair which are accompanied by rhythmic drumming. A number of articles including household artefacts and silver ornaments are sold at the fair.
Dangs Durbar - Jamabandi Durbar Fair
It is a three day fair held every year in the Dangs district of Gujarat. It is celebrated a few days before Holi. It is one of the most colourful and attractive fairs of the state and attracts a number of tourists including tribal people. The fair is also characterized by the exhibition of tribal culture and development schemes.
Dhrang Fair
Dhrang fair is organized in Dhrang village, situated in Kutch district of Gujarat. The place is known for Saint Mekaran Dada who served the community with commendable devotion. He also worked for the abolishment of superstitions and untouchability. During the fair, a large number of devotees visit his "Samadhi" to pay homage. The fair is held in the month of March.
Shamlaji Fair
Shamlaji fair, also known as the Kartik Purnima fair, which is celebrated every year in the month of November. This two week long fair is held in the Shamlaji temple which is a well known Vaishnav shrine. Pilgrims belonging to different castes and communities attend the fair including Bhils and Garasias. The fair is also famed for the holy bath in the Nagdhara kund which is an age old tradition.
Vautha Fair
Vautha fair is a significant animal trading fair of the state. The fair is dedicated Lord Kartikeya and is celebrated during Kartik Purnima of the Gujarati month of Kartik. People belonging to different communities visit the fair. Farmers and labourers also attend this fair.
Tarnetar Fair
It is organized in a village named Tarnetar situated in Surendranagar district of Gujarat. The fair revolves around the temple of Trinetreshwar and is also known as Trinetreshwar Mahadev Mela. The fair serves as a marriage mart for the tribal youth who visit the fair to find a suitable match for them. Cattle exhibition is another important aspect of the fair.
Ambaji Purnima Fair
Ambaji Purnima fair is a huge religious fair which is held in the Ambaji temple of Gujarat during Navaratri. A number of pilgrims from different regions of the state visit the fair singing religious songs and chanting the name of `Amba Mata`. It is believed that the goddess visits the shrine during the fair. Cultural performances in the fair include folk drama, Bhavai dance and Garba dance.
