‘Chhappar Mela’ is held in which of the following state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 1: Punjab.
Explanation:
- The 'Chhapar Mela' is one of the most popular and colorful cultural festivals of Punjab.
- Location: This fair is held annually in the village of Chhapar, located in the Ludhiana district of Punjab.
- Significance: This fair is organized in memory of the folk deity Gugga Peer (who is revered as the 'God of Snakes'). It is believed that offering prayers here provides protection against snakebites and skin ailments.
- Timing: It is celebrated on the fourteenth day (Anant Chaturdashi) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of *Bhadrapada* (Bhado), according to the Hindu calendar; this typically falls in the month of September.
- Special Tradition: Devotees here scoop up earth from the ground seven times—a ritual known as 'Mitti Kadhna' (scooping earth). It is believed that performing this act ensures protection by Gugga Peer.
Other Major Fairs and Festivals of Punjab (Quick Revision):
- Hola Mohalla: Held in Anandpur Sahib (a symbol of Sikh valor).
- Maghi Mela: Held in Muktsar (in memory of the '40 Muktas' or liberated ones).
- Jarg Mela: Held in Payal (Ludhiana) in honor of Goddess Sheetala Mata.
- Baisakhi: A harvest festival and the commemoration day of the establishment of the Khalsa Panth.
Important Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: To which folk deity is the Chhapar Mela dedicated?
Answer: Gugga Peer (or Gogaji).
Question: In which district of Punjab is the 'Jarg Mela' held?
Answer: Ludhiana.
Question: Which fair in Punjab is famous for the 'worship of donkeys'?
Answer: Jarg Mela (as the donkey is the *vahana*—or vehicle—of Goddess Sheetala Mata).