The Chetar Chaudas Mela
The Chetar Chaudas Mela is a major religious fair held every spring, usually in March, at the sacred Saraswati Tirtha in Pehowa, located in the Kurukshetra district of Haryana. Attracting lakhs of devotees from across the region, the fair is marked by traditional rituals such as Pind Dan (offering food) and Jal Tarpan (offering water) performed in honor of one’s ancestors. Deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs, the mela holds great spiritual significance as it is associated with the ancient legend that the Pandavas conducted similar rites at this very site after the Mahabharata war, seeking peace for the souls of their departed kin.
Key aspects of the fair:
Location: Saraswati Tirtha (also known as Prithudak Teertha) in Pehowa, Kurukshetra district.
Timing: Takes place every year in the spring, around March-April. For 2025, it was held from March 27–29.
Main rituals: Devotees perform Pind Dan and Jal Tarpan rituals for their ancestors.
Significance: It’s believed that performing these rituals at this sacred site brings peace to the souls of the departed. It’s also considered significant for having their sins washed away.
Participants: The fair draws a large number of pilgrims, including Hindus and Sikhs, from various states like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Facilities: The local administration makes arrangements for infrastructure, security, and sanitation for the large crowds.