Saras Mela clocks Rs 5 cr sales, draws 3.48 lakh visitors

Patna: The Saras Mela at Gandhi Maidan here concluded on Wednesday. Organised by Jeevika under the rural development department, the five-day fair recorded sales of around Rs5.09 crore and attracted an estimated 3.48 lakh visitors.The event showcased products crafted by rural women entrepreneurs and artisans from all districts of Bihar and 25 other states, helping turn lesser-known traditional crafts into sustainable livelihoods while promoting self-reliance.The mela aimed to highlight India’s rich cultural legacy and reconnect the younger generation with traditional crafts, folk culture, and indigenous cuisine. The strong sales also highlighted the impact of govt welfare initiatives such as the Satat Jivikoparjan Yojana and the sale of saplings under the ‘Didi ki Paudhshala’ initiative.On Wednesday, social welfare minister Madan Sahni and additional chief secretary N Vijayalakshmi visited the mela and appreciated the efforts of Jeevika and the participating artisans.Beyond commerce, the mela also served as a platform for social awareness and capacity building. Street theatre groups, including Prahari Natya Sanstha, staged performances highlighting social issues such as child marriage and dowry abolition. In parallel, a two-day training workshop for ‘Pashu Sakhis’ from Nalanda district was organised, focusing on animal health and treatment.