Beyond animal trading: Discover the vibrant and diverse Sonepur Mela in Bihar

Bihar: The centuries-old Sonepur Fair in Bihar’s Saran district is once again drawing massive crowds, offering a vibrant mix of tradition, festivity, and modern entertainment at the confluence of the Ganga and Gandak rivers.

The Mela started out as an animal fair, and animals are still traded here, but it has grown into what is said to be Asia's biggest animal fair, earning it the moniker "village mall."

Visitors weave through bustling lanes lined with giant wheel rides, balloon-shooting stalls, jalebis, samosas, and traditional puffed-rice sweets. Alongside these familiar sights, the fair has embraced technology, with Virtual Reality experiences transporting visitors to popular tourist destinations, adding a futuristic edge to the age-old carnival.

Organisers and long-time participants speak with pride about the fair’s heritage and enduring appeal, insisting that no visitor leaves disappointed. Many attendees echo the sentiment, marvelling at the scale, diversity, and energy of the Mela.

With the Bihar Assembly elections now concluded, vendors say they are optimistic about brisker business in the coming days, as footfall continues to rise.

The Sonepur Fair, which opened on November 9, will run until December 10.