Dark HORSES
Year: 2014-2022
Location: BIHAR India
Long Term Series on Raw Indian energy emotion
Dark HORSES
Background
The Sonepur Cattle Fair, locally known as Harihar Kshetra Mela, is one of the largest and most famous cattle fairs in Asia. Held annually in the town of Sonepur, Bihar, it typically begins on Kartik Purnima (the full moon day in November) and lasts for about two weeks, sometimes extending to a month. The fair is a unique blend of commerce, culture, and spirituality, attracting visitors and traders from across India and abroad.
The fair has a rich history dating back to the Mauryan period, around 300 BCE. It is believed that Emperor Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses for his army here. The location of the fair, at the confluence of the Ganges and Gandak rivers, has also contributed to its historical and spiritual importance.
The Sonepur Cattle Fair is deeply rooted in spirituality, adding a sacred dimension to its commercial and cultural aspects. The fair's connection to the Harihar Nath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is central to its religious importance. Pilgrims from across India and neighboring countries flock to Sonepur to take part in various rituals, making it an essential stop for spiritual seekers.
The temple is believed to have been established by Lord Rama while en route to Janakpur with Sage Vishwamitra. This historic and mythological association draws countless devotees during the fair. Worship at the temple is considered especially auspicious during the fair, as it coincides with the holy month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. Devotees believe that offerings made here cleanse one of sins and bring divine blessings.
Tree
Why These fairs or gatherings are important to understand India, its people and their emotion. This travel defines the concept of family in true Indian perspective. It’s not only blood relation, disciples under same guru also become family, called “guru bhai”.
Often the entire family travel together including aged parents, young ones and the kids. Which create strong bonds and support system, respect for elders, transmission of values and culture, inclusive upbringing, resilience in crisis. They face lots of logistical issues but with very limited resource , they overcome all of them in smiling faces. That is the power of family and bonding
Also, not only human, animals taken to the mela are treated just like their kids. Seems like they all understand the feeling of their masters. This bond of life and emotion which makes real Bharat unique and proud.
Pride
While it is renowned for the sale of various livestock, horse trading is one of the major highlights of the event. Here's a detailed look at the tradition of horse selling at the Sonepur Fair:
Historical Significance
The fair dates back to ancient times when it was started by Chandragupta Maurya. It served as a hub for the exchange of elephants and horses, both of which were crucial to the military and agricultural systems of the time. Over the centuries, the fair has evolved into a cultural and commercial spectacle, but horse trading remains a significant attraction.
Horses at the Fair
Variety of Breeds: The fair features a wide range of horse breeds, including the renowned Marwari, Kathiawari, and indigenous local breeds.
Marwari Horses: These are particularly sought after for their unique curved ears, agility, and historical association with royalty and warriors.
Utility: Buyers at the fair seek horses for various purposes, such as:
Ceremonial use (e.g., weddings).
Equestrian sports and racing.
Agricultural and transport purposes.
Trading Process
The fair attracts horse traders, breeders, and enthusiasts from across India and even neighboring countries.
Horses are displayed with great care, often decorated and groomed to appeal to buyers.
Prices vary widely depending on the breed, age, training, and pedigree of the horse.
Showcasing: Sellers parade their horses to demonstrate their agility, speed, and obedience.
Negotiation: Bargaining is a common part of the trading process, with buyers and sellers engaging in lively discussions.
Testing: Buyers often test the horses for strength, temperament, and endurance before making a purchase.
Cultural and Social Context
Symbol of Prestige: Owning a high-quality horse purchased at the Sonepur Fair is often seen as a status symbol.
Traditional Practices: The horse trading at Sonepur is steeped in traditional practices and rituals, adding to its cultural significance.
Modern-Day Challenges
In recent years, the number of horses brought to the fair has declined due to:
Changes in agricultural practices reducing the demand for horses.
Rising costs of maintaining and transporting horses.
Stricter regulations on animal trading resulting restriction on Elephant trading
Mist and Mistry
The entire fair takes place area covered with dense mango tress. The Winter morning in that area , wrapped in mist feels like stepping into a serene dream. The air is chilly and dense with fog, blurring the edges of the world. Narrow dirt paths are barely visible, covered with a thin layer of dew. Trees stand like silent sentinels, their outlines softened by the white shroud of mist.
The people around create another layer of mystical encryption which can only be felt .
