Kenduli Mela Preparations Begin: Ancient Fair Set for Jan 13-17 in Birbhum

• The traditional Kenduli Mela, a Baul fair in memory of poet Jayadev, is set to begin on January 13 on the banks of the Ajay River in Birbhum.
• The nearly 400-year-old fair, known for its cultural and spiritual confluence, will run until January 17, with a "bhanga mela" continuing for a few days thereafter.
• Preparations are in full swing, with stall bookings ongoing offline and online via the 'Prayas' app; 300 stalls already booked.
• Illambazar Block Left Front Committee demanded vigilance against broker exploitation, improved infrastructure, and protection for residents from toll taxes.
• Illambazar Police Station is implementing heightened security measures, including a control room and CCTV cameras, anticipating large crowds from India and abroad.

Why It Matters: Birbhum's historic Kenduli Mela, a blend of culture and spirituality, is gearing up for Jan 13-17.