







Time travelling is an enigma to the rest of the world. But anyone who has visited the Jonbeel Mela, would say otherwise.





Held each year on the weekend of Magh Bihu at the historic location of Dayang Belguri in Morigaon district of Assam, Jonbeel Mela is popular for the bartering of goods that takes place between the various participating tribes.





The Jonbeel Mela kicks off with the worship of fire for the welfare of all followed by community fishing in the icy cold waters of the Jonbeel lake. The fair dates back to the 15th century and is the confluence of major tribes from the region. Folks dwelling in the hills descend to exchange spices, roots, berries for goods that cannot be cultivated in the hills from their cousins dwelling in the plains.





Towards the conclusion of the three day affair, the leader of the Tiwa community, known as Gobha Roja holds his court to address the various problems of his subjects. The Jonbeel Mela has been endorsing fraternity from times immemorial.





In an acknowledgement of its historic and cultural importance, chief minister of Assam, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has announced Rs. 1 crore from untied fund for the promotion of Jonbeel Mela. With adequate support from the government Jonbeel Mela has all the ingredients to be a global tourist attraction.