Five-day Madhavpur mela to begin in Porbandar today

Rajkot: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will inaugurate the renowned Madhavpur mela in Porbandar district on Sunday. The fair will feature performances by 1,600 artists, showcasing their traditional art forms, over five days.

Devotees can explore more than 200 stalls offering handcrafted items from artisans of Gujarat and the northeast, alongside a dedicated food zone serving northeastern cuisine and beach sporting activities.

According to the tourism department, 1,600 artists from northeastern states — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, and Nagaland — and Gujarat will present the largest fusion dance performance, highlighting India's cultural heritage.

A special multimedia presentation depicting the life of Lord Krishna and Rukmani will be featured. This fair commemorates the mythological wedding of Lord Krishna and Rukmini, which is believed to have occurred in Madhavpur when Lord Krishna was the king of Dwarka.

A notable aspect is the fair's connection to Arunachal Pradesh's Mishmi Tribe, who claim have descended from King Bhishmaka, Rukmini's father. The festival marks Rukmini's historic journey from Arunachal Pradesh to Gujarat with Lord Krishna.

According to the district administration, the Madhavpur fair serves as a cultural bridge between northeast and western India. Artists will perform various art forms including music, dance, and theatre. Northeastern participants will bring traditional instruments like dhol, pepa, and flute, while western India will present folk dances including garba, dandiya, and raas. The fair will display regional handicrafts and cuisines, promoting cultural integration and national unity.

There are 1,200 police personnel deputed for the security of this event.