In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, the Muslim community has applied for permission to hold a ‘Sadbhavana Mela’ (Harmony Fair) on March 25 and 26, 2025, after authorities denied approval for the traditional ‘Neja Mela’, reported the Print.
The ‘Neja Mela’ is an age-old fair held in memory of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, nephew of the invader Mahmud Ghaznavi. The administration declined permission for this year’s event, stating it was inappropriate to commemorate someone who invaded the country.
In response, village heads from Shahwajpur, Sura Nagla, Bichholi, and Saili Abdal Nagar have requested authorization to organize the ‘Sadbhavana Mela’, emphasizing its role in promoting communal harmony. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra has forwarded the application to the police department for assessment.
The ‘Neja Mela’ has historically been a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity, held annually after Holi. In 2023, organizers renamed it ‘Sadbhavana Mela’ to reflect its harmonious intent. However, the event was not held in 2024 due to certain reasons.
The community awaits the administration’s decision on the ‘Sadbhavana Mela’, hoping to continue the tradition under its new name.
