Bishnupur Mela 2020

Bishnupur Mela is an annual cultural and folk festival held in Bishnupur, a historic town in the Bankura district of West Bengal, India. Known for its rich heritage of terracotta temples and classical music, Bishnupur comes alive with vibrant festivities during this event. The 2020 edition of Bishnupur Mela, like previous years, was a celebration of local art, culture, and tradition. Here’s an overview of the event and its highlights:

Overview of Bishnupur Mela 2020

Dates: December 23-27, 2020

Location: Bishnupur, West Bengal

Significance: The mela celebrates the cultural heritage of Bishnupur, known for its classical music, terracotta temples, and Baluchari sarees. It is an opportunity for local artisans, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents.

Key Attractions

1. Cultural Performances:

   • Folk Music and Dance: Performances by local artists featuring traditional Bengali folk music, including Baul, Bhawaiya, and Jhumur.
   • Classical Music: Bishnupur is renowned for its classical music gharana. There were live performances by maestros playing the sitar, sarod, and tabla.
   • Dance Performances: Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak, along with local tribal dances.

2. Art and Craft Exhibitions:

   • Terracotta Art: Exhibitions of the famous Bishnupur terracotta, showcasing sculptures, plaques, and other decorative items.
   • Handloom and Textiles: Stalls selling the exquisite Baluchari sarees, known for their intricate designs and quality.
   • Local Handicrafts: Various other handicrafts including pottery, woodwork, and dokra (metal casting).

3. Food Stalls:

   • Traditional Bengali cuisine was a major draw, with stalls offering local delicacies such as pithas (rice cakes), sweets like rasgulla and sandesh, and savory items like kachoris and jhal muri (spicy puffed rice).

4. Workshops and Interactive Sessions:

   • Workshops on terracotta making, traditional weaving, and classical music were organized, allowing visitors to learn about the rich cultural practices of the region.
   • Interactive sessions with artisans and musicians provided deeper insights into their crafts and traditions.

5. Fairground Attractions:

   • Traditional fair rides and games added to the festive atmosphere, making it a family-friendly event.
   • Stalls selling toys, jewelry, and other trinkets were popular among visitors.

Safety Measures

Given the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizers of Bishnupur Mela 2020 took several precautions to ensure the safety of attendees:

• Social Distancing: Measures were implemented to maintain social distancing, especially in performance areas and food stalls.
• Sanitization: Regular sanitization of the mela grounds and facilities.
• Mask Mandate: Mandatory wearing of masks for all visitors and participants.
• Health Checks: Temperature checks and availability of hand sanitizers at multiple points within the mela area.

Conclusion

Bishnupur Mela 2020 was a celebration of the resilience and vibrant cultural spirit of the people of Bishnupur. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the mela successfully brought together artists, craftsmen, and visitors in a safe and joyous environment, highlighting the rich traditions and cultural heritage of this historic town.