The historic Dewa Mela is organised every year in Dewa, Barabanki, some 40 kms from Lucknow. The 10-day fair was inaugurated on October 15, and will be on till October 24. Dewa Sharif – the dargah (mausoleum) of Syed Haji Waris Ali Shah – is a symbol of the Ganga Jamuni tehzeeb, and the Dewa Mela celebrates this spirit of unity between people of all castes and religions. The mela is also known as Kartik Mela.
WHAT’S ON
Shopping: You can shop for some of the special products of various districts in U.P. at stalls put up at the Dewa Mela. Like bangles from Faizabad, surma from Bareilly, Khurja pottery, Bhadohi carpets, wooden furniture from Saharanpur, sports equipment from Meerut, and more. Like every year, there’s a grand cattle market.
Cultural programmes: Folk singer Malini Awasthi, ghazal singer Dr. HariOm, Sabri Brothers – the famous qawwals will be performing during the festival. There will also be a mushaira and kavi sammelan, taal vadya kacheri, Music Conference Bhojpuri music, Brij ki Phoolon ki Holi
Other events: Baby Show, Magic Show, Debate, Art and Rangoli competition; Hockey, Volleyball and All India Wrestling championship will also take place during the fair
HOW TO GET THERE
The best way to get there is by your private vehicle. Make the most of this weekend to visit the Dewa Mela or if you can, attend the grand closing ceremony on October 24.
