Pous Mela is a major event held in the month of December in Shantiniketan, Bolpur. Bolpur is located at a distance of 213 kilometers from Kolkata. In fact, Pous Mela has become one of the popular festivals of Calcutta these days. According to the Bengali calendar, the month of December is called 'poush mash'. As the fair or the mela is held in this month it is called Pous Mela. The mela is organized every year, attracting a large number of people to the place from all over the country.
History of Pous Mela
The first Pous Mela was organized on December 21st, in the year 1895. This event was aided by a trust run by Maharishi Devendranath Tagore who felt the need of bringing together the people of different communities residing in West Bengal. This fair was a platform for social get together and interaction that would lead to bridge the gap amongst the people.
Pous Mela Celebrations
During this festival, a large number of merchants and
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hawkers put up their stalls at the fair. Before the fair opens, prayers are enchanted at the Visva Bharati University campus grounds. Popular baul songs are heard during the inauguration ceremony. Tourists are greatly attracted by the different kinds of household articles, gifts, handicrafts items, artifacts and can choose from clay and bead jewelry, clay dolls, bamboo flutes, bamboo baskets, toys, batik saris and many more.
A separate stage for organizing cultural shows during the event is built. Tourists can enjoy the performances of renowned Rabindra sangeet singers, baul artists and santhal dancers. There are also food stalls where tasty snacks are available.
Reaching Bolpur
Bolpur has a well connectivity with other places. Tourists can avail the Santiniketan Express from Howrah Station in Calcutta to reach Bolpur. The time taken to reach is around two and a half hours. After arriving at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport, tourist will find taxis easily. By taxi or car it takes around 4 hours to reach Bolpur.
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