Chief Minister: Traditional festivals and fairs hold a unique significance in our culture

Gandhinagar : Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel stated that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has realized the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ by weaving India’s cultural uniqueness into a unified thread of unity.

In this context, the Chief Minister highlighted the renowned Madhavpur Fair of Saurashtra as a remarkable example of cultural harmony, showcasing its deep connection with the traditions of the Northeastern states. He emphasized that the fair is a sacred occasion where the regions of Sorath, Ghed, and Halar come together in profound devotion to Lord Krishna. He further noted that this event reinforces the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the belief that the world is one family.

The Department of Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities, in partnership with Gujarat Tourism Corporation, organizes this annual fair at Madhavpur near Porbandar. To bring the vibrant culture of the Northeastern states closer to citizens across Gujarat, a grand cultural event was held in Ahmedabad as a prelude to Madhavpur Fair 2025. This captivating event showcased a cultural confluence, where artists from Gujarat and the Northeastern states performed together. The program was inaugurated by the Chief Minister.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the unique significance of traditional festivals and fairs in preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage. He noted that such festivals not only showcase the distinct traditions of each region but also foster unity and shared identity. Centuries ago, Lord Krishna married Rukmini from Arunachal at Madhavpur in Gujarat, forging a timeless bond between Gujarat and the Northeastern states. This festival, which commemorates their sacred union, beautifully embodies the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,’ reinforcing the vision of a united and culturally enriched India.

The Chief Minister further emphasized that while linguistic, customary, and culinary diversity is inherent to India, its cultural essence remains unified. He remarked that even if we do not understand the language of other states, we can still appreciate and enjoy their folk dances and cultural performances. Highlighting Gujarat’s vibrant spirit—“Where celebration is life itself”—he announced that the Madhavpur Fair will feature over 800 artists from the Northeastern states showcasing their traditional dances in Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Dwarka, and Somnath. This grand celebration will truly bring the concept of ‘Tradition Meets Talent and Culture’ to life.

Speaking about the ongoing cultural confluence event in Ahmedabad, following the successful programs in Surat and Vadodara, the Chief Minister highlighted that the cultural exchange between Gujarat and the Northeastern states not only strengthens the spirit of unity in diversity but also elevates the Madhavpur Ghed Fair—held on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami—as a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. He emphasized that this fair represents the confluence of devotion and traditions associated with both Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. Additionally, he noted that the stalls showcasing Northeastern handicrafts and cuisine will further promote the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, providing a platform to artisans and traditional crafts.

Minister of State for Youth Services and Cultural Activities, Shri Harsh Sanghavi, highlighted that the Madhavpur Fair is deeply linked to the sacred wedding of Lord Krishna and Rukmini. To celebrate this auspicious festival, over 800 artists from the Northeastern states and Gujarat performed mesmerizing dance presentations at Kankaria in Ahmedabad, creating a truly joyous experience. He emphasized that under the visionary leadership of global leader and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, along with Gujarat’s Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, efforts are underway to extend the reach of this festival to every district. Furthermore, he noted that this cultural initiative is a significant step toward realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,’ fostering unity through the rich traditions of India.

During the event, the city’s Mayor, Smt. Pratibha Jain, welcomed attendees by highlighting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary initiative, ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,’ which has brought unparalleled global recognition to India’s rich culture and artistic heritage. She emphasized that the grand and sacred history of Lord Krishna and Rukmini’s wedding, beautifully revived through the Madhavpur Ghed Fair, not only connects today’s youth with India’s artistic and cultural legacy but also showcases the nation’s glorious heritage on the global stage.

This festival, which harmonizes the cultures of the Northeastern and Western regions of India, will witness performances by approximately 1,600 artists, playing a significant role in promoting unity in diversity and the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’  

The cultural event at Kankaria in Ahmedabad was graced by the presence of Shri Mulu Bhai Bera, Tourism Minister; Shri Jagdish Vishwakarma, Cooperation Minister; Shri Jatin Patel, Deputy Mayor; city MLAs; Shri Devang Dani, Standing Committee Chairman; Shri Gaurang Prajapati, Municipal Ruling Party Leader; Smt. Sheetalben Daga, Whip; Shri M. Thennarasan, Principal Secretary of the Department of Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities; Dr. Rajender Kumar, Tourism Secretary; Shri Banchhanidhi Pani, Municipal Commissioner; Shri Sujit Kumar, Ahmedabad Collector; Shri Udit Sheth, MD of TransStadia; along with officials from Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, councilors, dignitaries, and a large gathering of citizens.

Cultural Presentations  

Various traditional dances from the North East were showcased at Kankaria Transtadia, including Bihu Nach, Hamzar, and Dasoari Delai from Assam; Rikhampada, Teng Ko Nyon, and Tapu from Arunachal Pradesh; Chonglezwon and Sarlamkai from Mizoram; Koch and Wangla from Meghalaya; Sangatam (Maku Hinayachi) from Nagaland; Singai/Yok Chham, Tamang Selo, and Chutkay from Sikkim; Pang Dhong Dholok Cholam from Manipur; and Mamita, Hojagiri, and Sangrain dance from Tripura.

Artists from Gujarat mesmerized the audience with performances of Mishra Raas, Manjira Raas, Krishna Raas, Goph Raas, Tippani, Dangi Dance, Rathwa Dance, Mevasi Dance, Lezim Dance, Adivasi Sword Dance, Holi Dance, Dhol Sharnai, Garba, and Huddo Raas, among others.

Source: Information Department, Gujarat