The various folklore associated with the fair claim that animals were traded here from the times of Chandragupt Maurya and through the Mughal era. Once famous as Asia’s largest cattle fair, Bihar’s “Sonepur Mela” is losing its sheen with colourful events turning it into a cultural carnival. The various folklore associated with the fair claim that animals were traded here from the times of Chandragupt Maurya and through the Mughal era. The regular visitors to the fair claim the number of cattle traders has reduced considerably, and handloom and handicraft stalls along with government kiosks now dominate the fairground. Similar views were echoed by RJD President Lalu Prasad Yadav, who said, “Fewer animals have been brought to the fair as cattle traders are hesitant of attack by Gau Rakshaks en route.

Source: dna November 24, 2017 03:33 UTC