Bhagoria: Fest of love in MP district

Jhabua, MP, Mar 6 (UNI) Bhagoria, the festival of love celebrated amid the intoxication of the 'phagun' month and spring winds in this tribal-dominated district of Malwa region, is on the verge of assuming a more attractive form.

In view of the cultural significance of this key fest, the state government has picked up the gauntlet of providing facilities to Bhagoria markets while keeping the traditional nature of the event intact.

The seven-day Bhagoria begins on March 8.

Young men and women need no longer elope after selecting one another in Bhagoria markets as the district administration would organise their wedding at the fairs. Each pandal would have a capacity to seat five couples for the ritual. Every couple would receive Rs 5,000 besides accoutrements. On-the-spot registration would be possible and certificates issued.

On the eve of the Festival of Colours, the Bhagoria spirit begins to spread across Malwa's tribal-dominated areas. Amid Butea Frondosa ('palash') trees, wheat and gram crop and the fragrance of 'mahua' (Bassia Latifolia), tribal love stories seem to take form.

Throughout the year, even children and the aged eagerly await Bhagoria markets that also attract several foreign tourists.

Nowadays, many tribal youth dress in shirts and pants and even sport spectacles! The fairer sex has not been left behind in the fashion race and are seen in make-up including lipstick.

UNI XC-AC MA DS1330