Jonbeel Mela 2022 In Assam Cancelled Due To COVID-19: Know About Jonbeel Mela

Jonbeel Mela which is organized every year in the state of Assam has been cancelled this year in light of the COVID-19 situation prevailing in Assam.

As the covid situation is getting worsened in the state and there has been a spike in the number of positive cases, therefore, organizers of the Jonbeel Mela has decided for the cancellation of the fair.

However, the organizers also informed that this time though there will no Jonbeel Mela but to keep the tradition continue, around 100 to 150 people will be allowed to participate in the barter system which is a significant aspect of the fair.

Jonbeel Mela:

The Jonbeel Mela or fair is known widely for its unique concept of preserving the barter system that was practiced for many centuries before money/cash was introduced.

The fair is organized every year in the northeastern state of Assam and it continues for three days starting from the weekend days.

It is mainly set up on the weekend day of Assamese festival Magh Bihu celebrated in the month of January each year. The mela is indigenous to the Tiwa Community residing in both Assam and Meghalaya.

The Jonbeel fair is organized by the Tiwa people at the place of historical importance called Dayang Belguri located at Joonbeel in the Morigaon district of Assam.

The area is 32 kilometer distance from Guwahati city and 3 kilometer from Jagiroad of Morigaon. The National Highway number 37 connects the fair.

The fair has become an important tradition of practicing barter system among the people which is not prevalent at present days. Therefore Jonbeel Mela is the only event where the Barter system is practiced even today.

Apart from the Tiwa tribe people from various communities visit the mela such as Rabha, Jaintia, Khasi and Karbi all living in the border areas of Assam and Meghalaya.

Various types of traditional and cultural performances are seen in the three-day-long fair and people display a number of fresh produce and local poultry.

Any of the staff sold at the festival are not available to buy with money and could be bought only in exchange for other staff.

The Jonbeel Mela features the visit of the Gobha king and it continues the keep alive the importance of the tribal kings.

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