Equestrian enthusiasts plan polo matches during Muktsar’s Maghi Mela

Polo matches are likely to be played for the first time during the Maghi Mela near the livestock market at Lambi Dhabh village here on January 11 and 12.

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If approved by the government, four teams from Chandigarh will participate in the event, which will be organised by the Punjab Horse Show, a group of horse lovers.

Sirbeerinder Singh Sidhu, a horse breeder and founder member of the Punjab Horse Show group, said, “We have taken two acres on rent at the village to organise four arena polo matches. Since we are new to it, we will learn the rules and regulations of this sport and try to prepare a local team for the next year.”

However, Animal Husbandry Department Assistant Director Gurditt Singh said they are yet to receive an application seeking permission to hold polo matches.

Maghi Mela is observed every year in Muktsar to commemorate the martyrdom of 40 Muktas (Sikh soldiers), who laid down their lives while fighting against the Mughal forces in 1705.

Meanwhile, a kennel club has sought permission from the district administration to organise a dog show on January 12.

“The state government is not organising any livestock championship but a kennel club has sought permission to hold a dog show," the officer added.

Last year, a horse show was organised by some enthusiasts, which is not being held this time.

A national livestock championship, which was made a part of the Maghi Mela during the SAD-BJP government, has already been discontinued.

Nearly 70 competitions involving horses, cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, dogs and camel were part of this prestigious championship.

Meanwhile, the district administration has started preparations for the event, dividing the town into seven sectors.