Baijalpur village’s Korda Mar Holi tradition strengthens community bonds

For the past 21 years, Baijalpur village in Haryana’s Fatehabad district has been celebrating its rich cultural heritage through the Fag Festival, a three-day event featuring the unique Korda Mar Holi — a playful tradition where married couples, particularly brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, engage in a spirited game.

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This year’s festivities, held from Friday to Sunday, saw enthusiastic participation from couples aged 15 to 50. Adding a special touch, 75-year-old Amar Singh Jhajdia and Sahiram joined in alongside their elderly sisters-in-law, continuing the tradition with great enthusiasm. Over 80 couples have participated in this joyous event so far.

The collective Faag Festival began in 2004 when a committee led by Havildar Satbir Singh Jhajdia, Master Rohatash Bhakar and Dharmveer Kadian initiated the event to promote unity and prevent conflicts during Holi. Previously, Holi was celebrated separately in different neighbourhoods, often leading to disputes. However, shifting the celebrations to the main chowk helped foster harmony and reduce water wastage.

The highlight of the festival, Korda Mar Holi, involves sisters-in-law playfully striking their brothers-in-law with ropes and chunis (scarves), while the young men respond by splashing them with water from large cauldrons. This lively tradition, held in the village’s main square, attracts hundreds of men and women, with water tankers ensuring a steady supply for the playful battle.

The true spirit of the festival lies in the fun and laughter shared by participants, with many eagerly looking forward to the playful beating from the ropes as a mark of tradition. Korda Mar Holi has become a signature event in rural areas, celebrated with full enthusiasm. Sarpanch Hemant Baijalpuria emphasised that social leaders established Korda Mar Holi 21 years ago to maintain community spirit while conserving water. Today, a dedicated team of young villagers carries forward this legacy, ensuring the tradition thrives. The event has gained widespread recognition, attracting visitors from distant places eager to witness the vibrant celebration.

The village panchayat, in collaboration with local youth, continues to support and organise the festival, reinforcing the deep-rooted sense of community and togetherness in Baijalpur.