Anubrata Mondal image used in banner of Jaydeb Kenduli Mela, Birbhum
He has been in jail for almost a year and a half. Repeated application for bail did not avail. TMC leader Anubrata Mandal of Birbhum is still imprisoned in Delhi’s Tihar Jail. However, his bright presence in various events of the district was also seen in Jayadeva’s Kenduli Mela. The picture of Anubrata Mandal is shining at the gate of the fair. Although there are pictures of other leaders of the district as well. But it is clear from the image of Anubrata above the banner, how popular he still is in the district.
Jaydeb Mela is held every year in Birbhum, filled with greatness of Geet-Govinda Kavya. Until now his main sponsor was Anubrata Mandal. His picture used to be on the gate of the fair. Even after he was arrested by the CBI in August 2022 in the case of cow smuggling, it was understood that this tradition has not been interrupted even in this year’s Kenduli Mela. Fierce discussions have started in the political circles of the district.
Minister Chandranath Sinha officially inaugurated this fair on Sunday. Speaker Kajal Sheikh, Bolpur MP Asit Mal, Assembly Deputy Speaker Ashish Bandyopadhyay, District Magistrate Bidhan Roy, Akhara Committee President Paritosh Chakraborty, Ashram Committee President Gopal Brahmachari and others were also present. Veteran Baul artists Bankasyam Das, Karthik Das and Laxman Das Baul of Birbhum were felicitated in the inaugural function.
On Monday morning, people have already lined up to take a dip in Makar Snan at Ajay Char. The center of the fusion of cultural practices is that Jayadeva, the tune of the union has been met. Not only the artist-sadhaks of Bengal. Baul fakirs from home and abroad are here to sing. This year too, more than two hundred and fifty songs have been staged. Hundreds of CCTV cameras have been installed to ensure the safety of lakhs of devotees in this traditional fair. In addition to 2500 police personnel, sleeper dogs have also started surveillance. Temporary latrines have been installed on the banks of the river. Bio toilets have also been installed. This fair will continue till January 18.
