The much-anticipated Bhimthadi Jatra, an annual grand tribal fair, will kick-start on Thursday, bringing together artisans and small businesses from across the state of Maharashtra. With over 300 stalls, this 17th edition of the fair promises an array of lifestyle items, textiles, home decor, handlooms, and much more.
Sunanda Pawar, the founder of the initiative, emphasized the importance of preserving traditional homemade delicacies that are disappearing from the plates of city dwellers. Pickles, papads, spices, and other culinary delights will be available at the fair, catering to those longing for a taste of nostalgia.
Alongside the diverse stalls, the fair’s food section is set to be a crowd-pleaser, with over 90 vendors offering traditional Maharashtrian dishes. In a bid to promote sustainability, the fair is taking a green approach by providing filtered water in recyclable and refillable cups instead of selling plastic bottles.
Over the years, Bhimthadi Jatra has not only provided a platform for local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship but also facilitated their growth in marketing and packaging techniques. With the integration of technology, vendors have diversified their reach to a wider audience.
Organizers are expecting around 150,000 visitors over the three-day event held from December 21-24 on the Agriculture College grounds. To encourage participation, school students can avail a 50% discount on entry by presenting their IDs. The fair also ensures accessibility by providing wheelchair facilities.
Bhimthadi Jatra continues to promote the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra while nurturing artisans and small businesses, making it a must-visit destination this season.
