Every year, the small village of Gogamedi in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district comes alive with the sights and sounds of a grand celebration. The Gogamedi Fair, held annually in August or September, honors the legendary folk deity Gogaji. Devotees from across Rajasthan and neighboring states flock to this remote village, located 395 kilometers from Jaipur, to pay homage to their beloved protector against snakes and guardian of cattle.
The fair transforms Gogamedi into a bustling hub of activity. Devotees dress in vibrant yellow clothes and participate in lively processions, chanting hymns and carrying flags to honor Gogaji. The air fills with the sounds of traditional Rajasthani music and the aroma of local delicacies. Visitors can explore colorful market stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, and religious items.
Highlights
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Aspect |
Details |
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Name |
Gogamedi Fair |
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Dates |
August 19 - September 18, 2024 (coincides with Goga Navami) |
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Venue |
Gogamedi Village, Hanumangarh District, Rajasthan |
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Significance |
Honors Gogaji, a folk deity revered as protector against snakes and guardian of cattle |
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Key Activities |
Religious ceremonies, cultural programs, market stalls, pilgrimages |
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Unique Features |
Brings together devotees from various religious backgrounds |
About the Gogamedi Fair
Every year this meal takes place in August and September. You can explore the cattle fair at the Gogaji fair where people from various states bring camels, buffaloes, cows, and other animals to trade. The fair also features captivating folk performances, puppet shows, and storytelling sessions that bring the legend of Gogaji to life.
About the Gogaji Temple
At the heart of the celebration is the Gogaji Temple, where devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings. Many pilgrims undertake arduous journeys on foot to reach the temple, considering it a form of devotion.
Aspect | Details |
Name | Gogaji Temple |
Timings | 5 AM - 10 PM |
Venue | Gogamedi Village, Hanumangarh District, Rajasthan |
Diety | Gogaji |
Camel Numbers Surge at Gogamedi Cattle Fair 2024
The Gogamedi Cattle Fair, one of India's largest animal markets, is seeing a boost in camel numbers this year. The fair, held near the Haryana-Rajasthan border, has drawn 3,785 camels so far, up from 2,644 at the same time last year.
Traders and farmers from Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and even Jammu and Kashmir have brought their camels to the month-long event. Of the total, 3,077 camels are from Rajasthan, while 708 come from other states.
The fair has already seen 972 camel sales. The highest price paid for a single camel was 81,000 rupees, while the lowest was 9,000 rupees. This increase in trade has earned the Rajasthan Animal Husbandry Department 10,349 rupees in revenue.
The fair will host animal competitions on September 11-12, featuring camel races, horse races, and a buffalo milk contest. Top breeders will receive awards for their animals.
How to reach Gogamedi
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Mode of Transport |
Details |
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By Air |
The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, about 395 kilometers away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gogamedi. |
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By Train |
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By Road |
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular bus services to Hanumangarh from various cities in Rajasthan. From Hanumangarh, local buses or shared taxis can take visitors to Gogamedi. |
The Gogamedi Fair is more than just a religious gathering. It's a vibrant showcase of Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage, bringing together people from all walks of life in a colorful celebration of faith, tradition, and community spirit.