Amid Kanwar Yatra communal divide, a Himachal fair jointly organised by Hindus & Muslims stands as beacon of hope

As the nation grapples with rising communal tensions sparked by controversial orders in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand mandating eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route to declare the names of their owners and workers, the 1,100-year-old Chamba International Minjar Fair stands as a beacon of communal harmony.

The fair, which dates back to 935 AD, showcases a rich tradition of unity between Hindus and Muslims. The festival commenced with the Mirza family, custodians of a 400-year-old tradition, offering Minjar to Lord Raghuvir and Laxminarayan. Ajaz Mirza, the head of the Mirza family, continued this venerable practice by presenting handmade Minjar at the Laxminarayan Temple and Raghunath Temple.

The eight-day fair, jointly organised by Hindu and Muslim communities, began with a vibrant procession from the temples to Chaugan Maidan. Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla officially inaugurated the event by opening exhibitions at the Maidan, following his own Minjar offering at the Laxminarayan Temple. The fair will conclude with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presiding over the closing ceremonies.

The Minjar Fair celebrates the arrival of the new maize crop, with locals referring to maize and paddy ears as Minjar. The origins of the fair trace back to King Sahil Varman of Chamba’s victory over the King of Trigarta (Kangra).

Upon his victorious return, locals offered ‘minjar’ (tassels) of wheat, maize and paddy, along with seasonal fruits, in celebration. This historic act of offering has since evolved into a cherished tradition upheld by the Mirza family for centuries. The ritual continues even today.

In stark contrast, the Kanwar Yatra has seen disruptions and heightened communal sensitivity, particularly with the new directives requiring eateries to display ownership details. These measures have sparked controversy and debate over their implications for communal relations.

As the Chamba International Minjar Fair unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of India’s rich tapestry of cultural and religious harmony, offering a hopeful counterpoint to the divisive narratives surrounding the Kanwar Yatra. The fair’s enduring legacy of unity and mutual respect stands as an exemplar of how communal harmony can be maintained and celebrated even in the face of contemporary challenges, said a Chamba resident, Alok Pal.