Have you ever been to a fair where people race buffalo carts and sing songs to a goddess? That’s exactly what happens at the Ravechi Fair in Gujarat, India! This exciting event, also known as “Ravechi Mataji no Melo,” is a special celebration that brings together people from all over to honour Goddess Ravechi.
Where and When Does the Fair Happen?
The Ravechi Fair takes place in a small village called Nana Raava in the Rapar district of Gujarat. It’s held every year in September, on a day called Bhadra Sud Aatham in the Hindu calendar. In 2024, the fair will be on September 11th, from 4:00 PM to 11:55 PM.
The Amazing Ravechi Temple
At the heart of the fair is the Ravechi Temple. This isn’t just any temple – it’s over 52 feet tall and sits next to a big pond! People say the Pandavas (heroes from an old Indian story) built it way back in 1821. The temple has nine beautiful domes and a statue of Goddess Ravechi that people believe appeared on its own!
Inside the temple, you’ll see a big statue of Ravechi Mata painted red and covered in butter. There’s also a strange three-legged horse statue called Naklank. One of the coolest things is a special lamp called the Akhand Jyot that never goes out!
What Happens at the Fair?
The Ravechi Fair is like a big party where everyone’s invited! Here’s what you can expect:
- Buffalo Cart Races: Imagine seeing a big buffalo pulling carts in a race. It’s super exciting!
- Bhajans: People sing special songs to honour Goddess Ravechi.
- Garba: This is a fun dance that everyone can join in.
- Meeting New Friends: People from different communities like Ahir, Rabri, and Charan come together to celebrate.
How to Get There
If you want to visit the Ravechi Fair, here’s how you can get there:
- By Plane: The closest airport is in Kandla, about 100 kilometres away.
- By Train: You can take a train to Samakhiali station, which is 45 kilometres from the fair.
- By Road: The fair is right in the city of Rapar, so it’s easy to reach by car or bus.
Important Information
- The fair is free to attend – you don’t need to buy a ticket!
- It’s organized by the Ravechi Gram Panchayat, and you can call Rajubha Bahadursinh Jadeja at 9879252380 if you have questions.
- The exact address is Rav, Kutch-370165, Gujarat.
The Ravechi Fair is more than just a fun event – it’s a chance to see a beautiful part of Indian culture and make new friends from all over!
5 Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is the Ravechi Fair suitable for children? A: Yes, the fair is family-friendly with many activities children can enjoy, like watching buffalo cart races and participating in dances.
- Q: Can tourists visit the Ravechi Temple outside of the fair dates? A: Yes, the temple is open to visitors year-round, but the fair in September is when it’s most lively.
- Q: Are there food stalls at the fair? A: While not mentioned specifically, most Indian fairs have food stalls selling local delicacies. It’s best to check with the organizers.
- Q: Is photography allowed at the temple and fair? A: Generally, photography is allowed at fairs, but it’s respectful to ask before taking photos inside the temple.
- Q: How long has the Ravechi Fair been celebrated? A: The fair has been celebrated for many years, likely since the temple was built in 1821, but the exact start date isn’t mentioned.
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