The 18th edition of the much-awaited Bhimthadi Jatra showcasing Maharashtra’s rural arts, culture, and sustainable innovation will be held at the Agriculture Ground, Sinchan Nagar, Pune from today December 20.
It will go on till December 25.
The event, founded by Sunanda Pawar, aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban communities by promoting entrepreneurship and preserving traditional crafts.
This year’s event commemorates the 25th death anniversary of Padmashree awardee Appasaheb Pawar, a pioneer in agricultural innovation and the father of drip irrigation in India. A memorial section at the entrance will honour his contributions to rural progress and sustainable farming practices.
The Jatra is expected to draw over one lakh visitors and will feature various sections, including:
Farmers’ produce section: Highlighting residue-free products, GI-tagged items, and innovations in agriculture.
Bee and butterfly conservation initiative: An indigenous plant garden will educate visitors about pollinators’ role in biodiversity.
Bhimthadi select: Premium stalls offering sustainable textiles, natural-dye clothing, and handcrafted lifestyle products.
Swayamsiddha section: Showcasing products by women entrepreneurs and self-help groups, including bamboo jewellery, millet snacks, and pumpkin juice.
Bara Balutedar section: Demonstrations by artisans, including potters and cobblers, celebrating traditional rural occupations.
For the first time, Telangana stalls will bring traditional handlooms and regional cuisine, enhancing the cultural experience. Workshops, including a saree draping session by Ashwini Narayan, will engage visitors, while the popular food court will serve authentic Maharashtrian dishes such as Malvani seafood thalis and ukadiche modak.
The #ShareYourPrivilege campaign has been initiated to encourage urban audiences to embrace cultural diversity and support rural artisans. Speaking on the occasion, Pawar said, "Bhimthadi Jatra is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the heart and soul of rural Maharashtra. This year, as we honour the remarkable legacy of Shri Appasaheb Pawar on his 25th death anniversary, we are reminded of the deep connection between agricultural innovation and sustainable progress. Through this platform, we aim to empower rural artisans and entrepreneurs, fostering a space where tradition and modernity coexist, inspiring both urban and rural communities alike. I invite all to witness this harmonious blend of culture, sustainability, and creativity at Bhimthadi Jatra 2024.”
Bhimthadi Jatra 2024 will run from 10am to 10pm daily, with an entry fee of Rs60. Facilities include wheelchair access, pet-friendly zones, shopping carts, and medical aid
