by Arun Pathak
Bokaro: The annual Ispatanchal Swadeshi Mela, organised by Swadeshi Jagran Manch at Sector-4 Mazdoor Maidan, has turned into a vibrant hub of desi products, traditional cuisine and cultural performances. Running from January 27 to February 5, 2026, the fair is witnessing a steady footfall every day.
Stalls selling clothes, home décor, furniture, handicrafts and food are pulling in visitors, with a few emerging as clear crowd favourites. The Mithila painting stall (Ruchi Ethnic Mithila Haat), Swadeshi Jagran Manch’s Litti Chokha counter, and the Modern Pandit Cafe – Millet Food Stall remain packed throughout the day.
Mithila artist Ruchi Prerna, who runs Ruchi Ethnic Mithila Haat, said her stall offers sarees, kurtas, T-shirts, bags, wall art, bed sheets and more, all hand-painted in the traditional Mithila style. “People are showing strong interest in indigenous art and handmade products,” she said.
At the food court, Modern Pandit Cafe is drawing food lovers with its millet-based menu. Owner Sanjeev Kashyap said visitors are relishing corn, millet and ragi rotis, saag, millet halwa, jaggery and coriander chutney—served at affordable rates.
Adding to the festive mood, the mela features daily cultural and literary programmes. Folk songs, music, dance and poetry recitations keep the stage alive, making the fair not just a marketplace but a cultural gathering space.
In an era dominated by mobile screens and online shopping, the Ispatanchal Swadeshi Mela is reminding people of the simple joy of stepping out, exploring stalls, enjoying live performances and reconnecting with India’s indigenous traditions.
