In a testament to its roaring success, the Saras Mela in Patna has been granted a significant extension. Originally slated to conclude on Sunday, the vibrant fair will now continue to welcome visitors until January 4. Organisers have announced a one-day closure on New Year's Day, January 1, with festivities resuming immediately after.
Record-Breaking Commerce and Footfall
The numbers tell a story of overwhelming popularity. Organised by Jeevika under the state's rural development department at the iconic Gandhi Maidan, the mela has witnessed a commercial boom. Within just the first 17 days, the total sales figure has skyrocketed past an impressive ₹22.75 crore. On average, daily sales are humming along at approximately ₹1.5 crore.
The influx of visitors has been equally staggering, with the total footfall already exceeding the 10 lakh (1 million) mark. The fair reached a crescendo last Sunday when a record 1.25 lakh people descended upon the grounds. The event boasts participation from 500 stalls, featuring self-help groups and artisans from 25 different states across India, making it a truly national celebration of rural craft and cuisine.
Stallholders' Delight: Pickles to Paintings in High Demand
The success is palpable on the ground, especially for the entrepreneurs behind the stalls. Runa Devi, a Jeevika didi managing a pickle stall, could not contain her enthusiasm. She reported that the demand for her homemade pickles has been phenomenal, with sales already crossing ₹1.5 lakh. "Organic pickles made of chilli and amla are selling like hot cakes," she exclaimed. Her sentiment was echoed by numerous other sellers from regions like Bhagalpur and Gaya, who are experiencing similar windfalls.
The fair offers an eclectic mix, from traditional Madhubani paintings to a vast array of regional food. This variety is a major draw for families and individuals alike, transforming the mela from a shopping destination into a holistic weekend experience.
A Cultural Hub for Families and Foodies
For visitors, the Saras Mela is more than a marketplace; it's a cultural retreat. Ananya, a visitor from Boring Road, praised the authentic culinary offerings, saying, "The food here reminds me of home; it’s rare to find such authentic and regional flavours in the heart of the city."
Families are making a day of it, enjoying the mela as a perfect weekend outing. Shikha, another attendee, shared her experience: "We came to buy Madhubani paintings at the fair, but ended up staying here to listen to music and enjoy the atmosphere." This blend of shopping, gastronomy, and entertainment is the cornerstone of the fair's extended appeal, ensuring its place as a highlight in Patna's annual calendar and a powerful engine for rural economic empowerment.
