Centuries-old Amritsar village fair draws farmers, breeders

A vibrant biannual cattle and horse fair, deeply rooted in Sikh tradition and history, is underway at Vallah village on the outskirts of Amritsar. Organised by the Panchayat Department, the 14-day fair starts three days before Baisakhi and continues for a week after the harvest festival.

The event draws a significant number of farmers and breeders, especially renowned horse owners from across Punjab. Buyers from Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan and Delhi travel to Vallah to acquire high-quality livestock. This year’s edition witnessed impressive participation from major stud farms, showcasing prized breeds like Marwari, Nukra and Kathiawari.

Historically, the fair holds great cultural and martial significance. Initiated by Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, the mela was intended to meet the need for horses within the Sikh martial tradition. Sikhs were encouraged to donate horses and arms rather than conventional offerings, giving rise to this gathering. The British later formalised it as an organised horse and cattle show.

Jagdeep Singh, author of Sikh history book series ‘Chade Turang, Udave Baaj’, highlighted the fair’s martial roots. “Guru Hargobind Sahib urged Sikhs to gather in Amritsar and contribute horses for the community’s defence. Earlier, the fair was organised at Burj Akali Phoola Singh. Then it shifted to Mall Mandi of Amritsar. Some years back the government developed a new cattle mandi at Vallah and now the fair is being organised here. That spirit lives on at these fairs. During the Sikh Misl era the horse traders from regions like Iran, Sindh and Marwar used to sell their breeds here.”

While Diwali is traditionally associated with milch animals, Baisakhi sees horses take the centre stage. Despite the fair’s grandeur, many buyers now look for low-cost horses, primarily for pulling carts rather than for breeding or show.

Sewa Singh, a horse owner said, “It used to be a matter of great pride to own a horse. I have been visiting this mela since childhood. We exhibit our horses here. I am happy that a large number of youths are still associated with this trade and are passionate for good breeds. There is no other place than Amritsar, where all prominent stud farms exhibit their animals.”

Amritsar