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Fairs of Bihar

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History is not always written by historians but some time by people who make up legends. The merger of Vedic and non-Aryan religions in Bihar gave origin to many fairs and festivals. Like, Gaya pitra pakshha Mela commemorates the uprooting of the Asurs of Gaya by Vishnu. The famous Sonepur Cattle fair, beginning with the full moon day of Kartik Purnima (November) commemorates the ancient agreement accomplished at Sonepur, between the opposing sects of Vishnav and Shiva worshippers.

Sonepur Mela
Leaving the myths apart, the famous Sonepur fair a cattle trading centre where birds and cattle are brought from different parts of the country for selling. The visitors at Sonepur mela enjoy their time talking to parrots, watching the elephants being bathed leisurely, hearing the trumpet, the artists decorating the elephants, energetic horses, big bulky buffaloes and other animals demonstrating their skill, strength and productivity.

Gaya Pitrapaksha Mela
Pitarpakshha mela is held in September for people who come here for the famous their ancestor worship or Sraddha ritual. Magga Brahmins prepare for the pindan - a mandatory Hind rite that is supposed to bring salvation to the departed soul. The tradition has its trace in the legend that a demon named Gaya demanded that be should be buried in the holiest spot of the world, as a precondition to his death. This place is called Gaya.

Saurath Sabha (Mithila- Marriage Market)
Mithila was once the debating ground for scholars. The place has now turned into Saurath Sabha near Madhubani. In the summer of June, Mithila Brahmins gather to explore the possibilities, discuss horoscope, and to negotiate marriages within the community.

The people have followed the system of recorded genealogy since the 1400 AD. These records were maintained by the Panjikars (registrar), who examined the validity of marriage settlements.

Makar Sankranti Mela
Makar Sankranti Mela is held in the month of January in Rajgir. And Mandar hills in Banka district. It is a common belief that the famous 'Panchyajanya Conch' of the Mahabharata was found here. Makar Sankranti marks the coming of summer season as Sun moves into Makar rashi.

There are many other fairs associated with the region.