The largest animal fair in the country the Vautha Fair held in Gujarat encompasses the wholesale trading of Cattle, Horses, Camels, Donkeys amongst other animals. It is held on the grounds of the Sangam Tirtha and in some communities is more important and auspicious than Diwali. The meeting of seven or Sangam Tirtha is considered holy as it is here that waters from the Vatrak, Kathmati, Meshwo, Majum, Khari and Shedi seven holy rivers mix a bath in these waters is said to cleanse all past sin.. Devotees gather here travelling on horses, camels, jeeps, trucks and various other varied forms of transport. Animals on sale are dressed up to look their very best to fetch the best price.
Important events of the fair
People who come to the Vautha Fair actually move here for the five days of festivities locking their houses and living at the venue in tents. Every year around 2000 tents are seen all around the grounds. Sweets and Food is available aplenty for visitors during the five days. The end of the fair is marked by the preparation of khichu and kachariyu Ladoos. Another must see is the floating of numerous small lamps on the rivers which shimmers on the water surface creating a mesmerizing effect of devotion and faith.
Now a days five lakh people have been known to participate in this fair annually. The Jath Vanjara community is a pastoral group known to also take part. The beauty of the fair is that though originally a Hindu fair Muslims can also be seen participating in the thousands.
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