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Gujarat: On the occasion of Paush Purnima, the historic event held in Jejuri combined tradition, business and cultural heritage. The special attractions in this program caught everyone’s attention and highlighted many unique aspects.
Donkey market organized in Gujarat
This time, on the occasion of Paush Purnima, a historic donkey market was organized in Jejuri city of Pune district of Maharashtra. This market is held during the famous Yatra of Khandoba Dev, in which people from all over the state and the country participate. This market in Jejuri is not only the center of trade but also a symbol of tradition and cultural heritage.
Donkeys of Gujarat are in special demand
This time the Kathiawadi donkeys of Gujarat attracted everyone’s attention in the market. These donkeys were in huge demand due to their strength and ability to work in hilly areas. The price of Kathiawadi donkeys reached Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh, while local donkeys were sold for Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000. The price of donkeys is decided on the basis of teeth and age, and this time the market became more vibrant as traders got good prices.
Price is determined by teeth and age
The price of donkeys in this unique market of Jejuri depends on their teeth and age. Donkeys with two teeth are called ‘Duwan’, those with four teeth are called ‘Chauvan’, and donkeys with strong teeth are called ‘Akhand’. ‘Intact’ donkeys fetch particularly high prices. Traders say that this year the prices have increased due to less number of donkeys.
continuation of centuries old tradition
Sri Kshetra Khandoba Yatra of Malegaon is counted among the most important religious pilgrimages of South India. Organizing a donkey market during this yatra is a 400 to 500 year old tradition. The special thing is that the buying and selling of donkeys here is done in a cashless manner, in which the traders make the payment next year. This tradition is an important source of livelihood for local communities and nomadic tribes.
Important contribution of nomadic tribes
The contribution of nomadic castes like Kolhati, Vaidu, Beldar, Kumhar, Madari, and Ghisadi is important in this traditional market. These castes participate in this journey every year and trade donkeys with the darshan of Khandoba Dev. This year too, devotees and businessmen enjoyed this cultural event immensely.
form of cultural festival
Khandoba Yatra and Donkey Market have once again proved how tradition and modernity can be merged. This historical market of Jejuri is not only a center of trade but also a beautiful example of preserving cultural heritage.
January 16, 2025, 16:32 IST
Here there is not a vegetable or fish market, but a donkey market…the reason will surprise you.
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