Fairs and Festivals bring a breath of fresh air, offering a break from the routine of daily life. Indians, especially, love joy and celebrations. Kenduli Mela 2024 takes place in Kenduli, the birthplace of the famous poet Jaidev in West Bengal's Birbhum district. Kenduli is approximately 42 km from Shantiniketan, Rabindranath Tagore's peaceful abode.
Joydev Kenduli Mela Highlights
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Particulars |
Details |
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Event |
Joydev Kenduli Mela |
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Dates |
14/01/2024 - 14/01/2024 |
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Location |
Joydeb Kenduli, Birbhum, West Bengal |
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Nearest Railway Station |
Bolpur station in Shantiniketan |
Joydev Kenduli Mela Location
Named after the renowned poet Jaydev Kenduli, the three-day fair occurs approximately 42 km from Shantiniketan, Rabindranath Tagore's peaceful abode. Located on the banks of the River Ajay, the fair is also known as Baul Mela or Jaydev Mela. The fair's commencement marks the auspicious day when the great poet Jaydev is believed to have bathed at the Kadaambokhandi Ghat of the River Ajay.
About Joydev Kenduli Mela
The Kenduli Mela in Birbhum is renowned for bringing together the Bauls, a group of mystic minstrels. They carry a unique musical tradition, recognized by their saffron attire and distinctive Ektara instrument. UNESCO has honored them by including them in the list of "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Joydev Kenduli Mela Schedule
Previous Day:
Agaman or a welcome to Bauls, Kirtanias, Sadhu-Sanyasis in the village Jayadev Kenduli.
Day 1:
Makar Sankranti or Poush Sankranti.
Holy bath in the River Ajay.
Commencement of the Mela.
Bauls and Kirtanias sing in Akhras.
Day 2:
Continuation of singing and playing Ektara instruments in the respective Akhras.
Day 3:
Fair activities as usual.
Nagar Parikrama – Bauls visit each other's Akhras.
Day 4: (Dhulat)
Breaking of the Mela.
Dhulat signifies everything reducing to dust.
Celebration with abir khela (throwing colorful dust), kolakuli (embracing like Vijay Dashmi of Durga Puja), and vidaya (parting).
How to Reach the Venue
By Rail:
Take a three-hour train journey from Kolkata to Bolpur station in Shantiniketan.
Regular train services are available, and booking in advance is recommended for a comfortable ride.
By Road:
Utilize the regular bus service from Jamboni bus stand connecting Bolpur to Jaydev Kenduli.
The road journey takes approximately [provide estimated hours.
Alternatively, consider traveling to Durgapur and hiring local transport to reach Jaydev Kenduli.