Chamba’s Saho Jatar Fair showcases rich heritage, talent

The historic Saho Jatar Fair, representing brotherhood and tradition, was celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur in Chamba on Monday. The traditional Bhasmasur and Ghurei dance performances were the main attractions of the event.

The festivities began in the morning with a vibrant procession starting from Chamaharui village of Protha. After a stop at Diyul village, the procession continued towards the Kothi Jalpa Mata Temple, and finally reached the Chandrashekhar Mahadev Temple in the afternoon.

Men and women dressed in traditional “Chola Dora” attire performed the Nati together, captivating the audience. Spectators from not only the district but also from outside areas flocked to witness the event.

Chamba MLA Neeraj Nayar attended the fair as the chief guest. He congratulated everyone on the successful organization of the historic Saho Jatar Fair and emphasised that fairs and festivals symbolize unity, integrity, and cultural heritage, and thus must be preserved. He also announced a contribution of Rs 11,000 to the fair committee.

The fair also saw an array of performances by renowned and local artists. It began with an impressive Musadha singing performance by Roshan Lal, followed by soulful renditions by folk singers Subhash Prince and Pallavi Pathania. The Ritika Folk Dance Group, with their mesmerizing Himachali Suhala Nati, became the highlight of the fair.