Bahu Mela, J&K
Bahu Mela is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in Jammu on the occasion of Ramnavami. It indicates the rich cultural heritage of India and the integrity of Indian customs and traditions. Though it is celebrated as a religious festival of the Hindus, people of all casts & creeds join hands in celebrating the Bahu carnival with fun & fervor. Bahu festival in Jammu is held at Bahu Fort where the idol of Goddess Kali is being worshipped. People believe that Goddess Kali has miraculous powers which do magic and solves men's problem.
People gather at Bahu Temple offering worship to the Goddess to gain blessings from her. The Goddess is being worshiped twice a year and therefore this fair is also held twice in a year in March-April and also in September-October. Bahu Mela is celebrated with great vibrancy and enthusiasm. People wear their best costumes paying homage to the Goddess. The Bahu Fort in which is the idol of Mother Goddess Kali has been kept is situated 5 km from the Jammu city locating on the rock which faces the river Tawi. It is believed that the Bahu Fort is constructed 3,000 years ago by Raja Bahulochan from which the name Bahu Temple has emerged.
Pilgrims gather here on every Tuesday and Sunday to offer reverence. This is also known as Tawi flowing worship. The Bahu Mela comprises of various incidents like joy ride, temple viewing and also a holy dip into the sacred river. Various articles like utensils, accessories, garments and other pottery items are sold here.
