Dark Reality Of HIZLA MELA | Shikhnat Arang

Описание: Historical Origins (1890)
Foundation: The fair was inaugurated on February 3, 1890, by John Roberts Carstairs, the then British Deputy Commissioner of Santhal Pargana.
Purpose: It was established to build trust and bridge the gap between the British administration and the local Santhal people following the Santhal Hool (Rebellion) of 1855.
Naming: The name "Hizla" is believed to be derived from the local Hijla village or, according to some local lore, from the English phrase "His Laws" (referencing Carstairs' regulations).

Evolution and Modern Status
Tribal Branding (1975): On the initiative of then-Commissioner Shri G.R. Patwardhan, the word "Tribal" was officially added to the fair's name to emphasize its cultural focus.
State Recognition: The fair was declared a State Fair in 2008 and later upgraded to a "Mahotsav" (festival). It is now officially known as the Rajkiya Janjatiya Hizla Mela Mahotsav.
Location: It takes place on the banks of the Mayurakshi River at the foothills of the Hijla hills.


Cultural Significance and Customs
Timing: The mela is usually celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of Magh-Phalgun (around February), a time when local farmers are free from harvest duties.
Inauguration Tradition: Due to a modern local superstition that politicians who inaugurate the fair lose their next election, senior officials and ministers often avoid the ceremony. Today, the fair is typically inaugurated by the traditional Village Head (Manjhi Baba).
Activities: The event features traditional Santhali dances (accompanied by instruments like the mandar and singa), tribal art exhibitions, and government stalls highlighting welfare schemes.

Would you like to see the scheduled dates for the upcoming 2026 festival or more details on traditional Santhali performances?


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