Hapur: Garh Ganga Mela To Witness Record Devotee Rush; Farmers, Villagers Arrive In Large Numbers

A record turnout is anticipated this year at the historic Garh Ganga Mela, in Garhmukteshwar, Hapur, organised annually on Kartik Purnima and believed to trace its origins to the Mahabharata era. With sugar mills yet to begin operations and wheat sowing still around two weeks away, farmers across western Uttar Pradesh, the region’s primary visitors, currently have no agricultural commitments, paving the way for unprecedented participation.

The fair, held on the banks of the Ganga at Garh, is steeped in mythology. According to tradition, after the Mahabharata war, Lord Krishna brought the grief-stricken Pandavas to the Garh Ganga in the month of Kartik. There, they stayed for several days, performing rituals including Deepdan. 

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It is believed that this spiritual period eased their sorrow and prepared them to resume their royal duties. The annual Kartik Purnima Mela commemorates this moment and remains a major attraction for the rural and farming community, which makes up more than 80 per cent of attendees.

This year, with sugarcane crushing yet to begin and sowing work pending, farmers are largely free, boosting expectations of a record crowd. Additionally, the delay in announcing the three-tier Panchayat election schedule has subdued political activity, further freeing rural residents to attend the fair. Several attendees from nearby districts have already set up camps, enjoying the riverbanks and festive atmosphere.

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the mela grounds, reviewed preparations and security arrangements, and directed officials to ensure smooth conduct of the event. His visit has heightened enthusiasm among villagers and is expected to add to the influx. District Magistrate Abhishek Pandey and SP Kunwar Gyananjay Singh are stationed onsite, monitoring arrangements to ensure devotees face no inconvenience.

Authorities and political representatives continue to oversee preparations as Garh Ganga gears up for what could be one of its largest gatherings in recent years.