Gandhinagar: Fairs are an integral part of Indian civilization and cultural fabric, representing our traditions, cuisine, lifestyle, and heritage. The Tarnetar Fair, held in the village of Tarnetar in Chotila Tehsil of Surendranagar district, Gujarat, is a shining example of Gujarat’s vibrant culture and traditions.

According to folklore, during Draupadi’s Swayamvar, Arjun pierced the eye of a fish by aiming at its reflection in a water pond situated in the courtyard of the Trinetreshwar Mahadev Temple in Tarnetar, consequently marrying Draupadi. Hence, this land is known as Panchal Bhumi. The water pond holds religious significance, with the belief that Goddess Ganga descends here on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Bhadrapad. Legend has it that the Tarnetar Fair has been held here since ancient times.

Tarnetar Fair showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Saurashtra, featuring various communities such as the Bharwad, Ahir, Rabari, and Kathi, as well as residents in their traditional attire. The young participants, dressed in vibrant, embroidered garments, ooze enthusiasm and energy. Men are often seen parading with colourful, intricately embroidered umbrellas, while women flaunt their bright-coloured, flared chaniya. The traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya Raas captivate onlookers, with women gracefully moving to the rhythm and men energizing the atmosphere with their umbrella dances.

Surendranagar District Panchayat organizes livestock exhibitions and competitions at the Tarnetar Fair. This includes displays and contests featuring high-quality breeds such as Gir and Kankrej cattle, and Jaffrabadi and Banni buffaloes. A competition for the best-bred cattle is held and winning animals are awarded prizes and certificates. This livestock fair aims to promote the rearing of high-quality breeds.

The state government is implementing numerous schemes and organizing various programs to identify and promote sports talent in Gujarat. Among these initiatives, the Rural Olympics at the Tarnetar Fair plays a significant role. The event features a variety of competitions, including 100-meter, 200-meter, and 800-meter sprints, Long Jump, Jump Rope and Hurdles for school children of different age groups. For adults, the competitions include various events, such as Shot Put, Long Jump, 4x100m Relay, Coconut Throw, Wrestling, Volleyball, Kabaddi, Tug-of-War, Strongest Man Contest, Satodi (Nargol), and Sugar Laddoo Eating Competition. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three winners in each event.

For the first time, the Tarnetar Fair will feature traditional cultural competitions. To celebrate and promote folk art and artists, 24 different traditional contests will be organized. These include categories for attire, umbrella decoration, traditional embroidery, folk songs, folk tales, devotional songs, couplets and verses, daak-damru singing, flute performances, Bhawai, urban and rural raas, hudo ras, folk dance, shehnai, and solo dance. DeshGujarat