If you’ve never seen a bamboo deer or a bamboo bird, now’s the time! The International Van Mela, ongoing in Bhopal, offers a captivating display of bamboo artistry and Ayurvedic products. The Mela will conclude on 23 December.
This amazing fair has become a major attraction, featuring a variety of items ranging from handmade bamboo products to traditional Ayurvedic medicines, cosmetics, and wooden toys. The craftsmanship on display in the toys and household items is truly mesmerizing, showcasing the dedication and skill of artisans.
So far medicines made from forest produce and herbal products worth over 20 lakh rupees have been sold. More than 200 visitors received free medical consultation in the OPD set up in the fair.
Free consultation by Ayurvedic physicians and experienced Vaidyas in the OPD will continue till the last day of the fair. People are taking a lot of interest in knowing and buying products made from lemon grass, wild ginger, aloe vera and amla, and other forest produce. This time the organic products brought to the fair are attracting people and due to this the communities living in our forest areas involved in organic areas are also getting encouraged.
With an impressive 50 percent participation by women, the fair is a lively celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. Meena Verma, an artisan with a stall at the fair, said all her products are handmade and no machines were involved. Her stall features a range of items, including furniture and toys made from bamboo. Buyers are equally enthusiastic—retired forest officer Devendra Prasad Sharma praised the Ayurvedic products and the fair’s free medical camp.
The International Van Mela is not just about bamboo; it also showcases Ayurveda’s miraculous healing power. Stalls from different states, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, offer Ayurvedic medicines and herbal products designed to treat ailments.
The Minor Forest Produce Association enhances the fair’s attraction with its Vindhya Herbal products. These remedies, made from Ayurvedic herbs, promise effective cure for various health issues.
Visitors to the fair can find a wide range of products, including Ayurvedic laddus and dry food at affordable prices as well as natural cosmetics free from harmful chemicals.
Unique items like Ganesha idols made from cow dung and cow urine, which have been scientifically recognized for their medicinal properties and traditional Rajasthani pickles and homemade chutneys are a hit among visitors.
One of the attractions of the Van Mela is the free medical camps run by qualified Ayurvedic physician and Vaidyas. These experts offer consultations and treatments, drawing large crowds keen to explore the benefits of traditional medicine.
The 10th International Van Mela was opened on December 17 by Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. This year’s theme, women empowerment, is reflected in the participation of numerous women artisans. With about 300 stalls, the fair has transformed the Lal Parade Ground into a hub of cultural and commercial activity.
Residents of Bhopal are flocking to the Van Mela to buy Ayurvedic products and other items. This annual event has become a much-anticipated tradition, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. The fair will conclude on December 23, so don’t miss the opportunity to experience this celebration of art, health, and culture.
