30 Oct: The vibrant and deeply revered Jhiri Fair 2025 is set to commence in Jammu from November 4 to 13, bringing together thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists from across India and abroad. The annual fair, held in honor of Baba Jitto, the legendary farmer saint revered for his sacrifice against injustice and exploitation, is one of the most significant spiritual and cultural gatherings in the Union Territory.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will inaugurate the fair on November 4, marking the beginning of ten days of devotion, celebration, and community engagement. The festival’s enduring legacy reflects the deep-rooted faith of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and their collective reverence for Baba Jitto’s message of equality, self-respect, and dignity of labor.
Over the years, the Jhiri Fair has evolved into a grand socio-religious event, blending spirituality with cultural vibrancy. Devotees visit the sacred shrine of Baba Jitto to seek blessings and pay homage to his timeless ideals. Alongside religious observances, the fair features traditional cultural programs, folk performances, wrestling competitions (dangals), amusement parks, and a bustling marketplace filled with local handicrafts, traditional foods, and vibrant stalls that capture the spirit of Jammu’s festive traditions.
This year’s fair promises to be bigger and more inclusive, with enhanced arrangements made by the district administration to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience of all visitors. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Marh, Ms. Pallavi Misri (IAS), informed that the administration has undertaken extensive preparations, including improved sanitation, drinking water facilities, medical aid centers, and a well-coordinated security plan. Special focus has been placed on crowd management, traffic regulation, and emergency response systems to guarantee a smooth and safe experience for the devotees.
The fairground is being decorated with traditional motifs, illuminated pathways, and dedicated zones for cultural and religious activities. The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), in collaboration with the Tourism and Culture Departments, has also lined up a series of cultural evenings showcasing Jammu’s folk art, music, and dance. These performances aim to promote local talent while preserving the region’s rich cultural identity.
One of the highlights of the event will be the traditional dangal, drawing renowned wrestlers from across northern India. The wrestling bouts, held with great enthusiasm, symbolize physical strength, discipline, and sportsmanship, echoing the values of courage and perseverance associated with Baba Jitto’s legacy.
For visitors, the Jhiri Fair is not merely a pilgrimage—it is an experience that connects them to the roots of rural life, spirituality, and community bonding. Families, traders, artisans, and tourists come together in a spirit of festivity and faith, making it one of the largest rural fairs in northern India. The event also contributes significantly to the local economy, supporting artisans, vendors, and small businesses.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s upcoming inauguration will highlight the government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while ensuring modern infrastructural support. The administration’s proactive approach reflects a broader vision of promoting religious tourism and community-led cultural revival in Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities have also emphasized environmental sustainability this year, with measures such as waste segregation, eco-friendly stalls, and awareness campaigns to maintain cleanliness and reduce plastic usage throughout the fair.
The Jhiri Fair 2025 thus represents not only a religious pilgrimage but also a celebration of Jammu’s inclusive ethos—where devotion, tradition, and joy come together in perfect harmony. As devotees gather to honor Baba Jitto, they also reaffirm the enduring values of justice, faith, and community service that define his legacy.
The fair continues to be a living embodiment of Jammu’s spiritual heritage and communal spirit—a timeless reminder that faith, culture, and collective celebration remain at the heart of the region’s identity.
