300-yrs-old 'Gadha Mela' begins in Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot, Oct 24 (UNI) The famous 'Gadha Mela' (donkey fair) -- said to have been started by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Chitrakoot more than 300-yrs ago -- started yesterday.

An estimated 4,000 donkeys of different breed and pedigree have been brought in the fair for sale and purchase, Mela organiser Munna Lal Mishra said today.

The five-day Mela is organised on the banks of the holy river Mandakini.

Depending upon the breed and age, donkeys are sold between Rs 3,000 to Rs 50,000, Mr Mishra informed.

Interestingly, the donkeys are named after filmstars and politicians to catch the fancy of buyers.

''The fair provides a platform to donkey traders and buyers, which proves beneficial to both of the groups,'' he maintained.

Meanwhile, tight security arrangements have been made at the venue to maintain order.

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