Araria's 'Friendship Fair' Thrives: Historic River Bath, Affordable Wooden Goods & Wedding Gifts

Araria
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News18•04-01-2026, 16:35
Araria's 'Friendship Fair' Thrives: Historic River Bath, Affordable Wooden Goods & Wedding Gifts
- •Araria's Raniganj hosts an annual 'Friendship Fair' on Paush Purnima at the Fariyani River, where people bathe to uphold friendship.
- •The tradition dates back to Maharani Indravati's rule (1780-1800), where bathing in the Fariyani River symbolized an oath of lifelong friendship.
- •The fair is a major hub for affordable wooden items like beds, chairs, and tables, attracting buyers from far and wide.
- •It's crucial for middle and poor families to buy wedding gifts for Gauana ceremonies, with full sets available for 15-20 thousand rupees.
- •Unique items like Patras from Nepal are sold cheaply, and the fair generates significant income for vendors despite its shrinking size.
Why It Matters: Araria's 'Friendship Fair' blends ancient tradition with economic opportunity, offering affordable goods and strengthening community bonds.
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