Annual historic Jhiri Mela begins

Elaborate arrangements in place Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 14: Historic annual Jhiri Mela has begun at Jhiri village in Marh Sub Division of Jammu district.

Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Lakhs of people from several northern States of the country including Delhi NCR participate in this annual fair.

This week long Mela begins on Kartik Purnima every year.

Historic Jhiri Mela is connected with the supreme sacrifice of Baba Jeet Mal, popularly known as Baba Jitto, who raised voice against the exploitation of the farmers at the hands of `Jamindars’ of olden times.

Click here to watch video It is said that Baba Jitto was a true devotee of Mata Vaishnodevi.

Hailing from Aghar Jitto near Katra, he used to cultivate land in Jhri area of Jammu.

After seeing good crop with the hard work of Baba Jitto, the greedy Zamindar demanded exorbitant share (As Lagaan) of the grains/crop but the Baba Jitto refused to accept, claiming that it was very unfair, and more than the percentage fixed by the then King.

Harassed and victimized by the Zamindar over the ‘Lagaan’ (Tax) issue, Baba Jitto sacrificed his life over the huge heap of corn.

Shocked over the incident, Baba Jitto’s only minor daughter, Bua Kouri also ended her life.

This incident taught other farmers not to face exploitation and raise strong voice against the injustice of the Zamindar.

A large number of people have started arriving Jhiri village site to participate in the Mela.

The devotees perform special Puja at the shrine of the Baba Jitto and Bua Kouri and seek their blessings.

Community Langar is arranged through out the mela at the shrine.

Scores of stalls of eatables, cosmetic and other items have been installed.

Many markets have been established on the large field area.

The children enjoy marry go rounds and other games.

The police and civil administration have made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the fair.

The additional police and traffic cops have been deployed to regulate the traffic and public crowd at the site.

Special buses and minibuses have been deployed to facilitate the people/ devotees.

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