The Somnath Fair is held near the Temple of Shiva at Masi, Almora. This fair is held on the very auspicious day of Vishuwat Sankranti and is locally known as ‘Dahau’. The main activity and the center of attraction is catching fish. The Somnath fair is one of the most famous fair of Pali Pachhaun. Some good business takes place on this day with regards to cattle being bought and sold. The local villagers go the river to catch fish taking along with them ‘jaal’, ‘fatyav’ and ‘hathiya’ and bearing ‘tumra’. This locally is know as ‘Dahau’.
This fair is both religious and secular in nature. It provides secular entertainment in the form of shops, rides and cultural events and it is religious, as its history suggests. This fair is a complete entertainment package for anyone who decides to drop by. Apart from the cattle trading that goes on there are various small shops selling food stuff, sweet delicacies of the state, handicrafts and many other curios. Apart from the famous fish catching, there are a whole lot of other activities that take place at the fair. Music performances, Dance programs and many other artistic performances are displayed by the artists who come from across the country.
You will also find a large number of stalls and shops which are temporarily erected selling utensils, pottery, handicrafts, garments etc. The entrance to the fair is very cheap and hence allows the common man to come and enjoy the festival and its spirit along with their loved ones.
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