Bhubaneswar is not only famous for its temples but also for its melas or fairs, which bring joy and excitement to people. Throughout the year, different types of melas are organized in the city, where you can enjoy cultural programs, delicious food, and colorful stalls. These fairs reflect the traditions and festivals of Odisha, these are a must-visit for everyone. In this blog, we will explore some of the most popular melas in Bhubaneswar that you should not miss.
Image Credit- Google source
1. Toshali Mela
Toshali Mela – A Grand Handicraft & Handloom Fair in Bhubaneswar
Toshali Mela is one of the biggest handicraft and handloom fairs in Bhubaneswar, organized every year by the Odisha Handicrafts Department. This mela brings together talented artisans and weavers from across Odisha and other states, showcasing their traditional arts, crafts, and textiles.
What You Can Explore at Toshali Mela?
- Handwoven Sarees & Fabrics – Beautiful Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Kotpad sarees made by skilled weavers.
- Traditional Handicrafts – Unique items like Pattachitra paintings, stone carvings, wooden crafts, and silver filigree jewelry.
- Live Craft Demonstrations – Watch artisans create beautiful handmade products on the spot.
- Food Stalls – Enjoy authentic Odia dishes like Dalma, Pakhala, and Pithas.
- Cultural Programs – Folk dance, music, and traditional performances add to the festive vibe.
Why Visit Toshali Mela?
If you love handmade products, traditional textiles, and cultural performances, Toshali Mela is a must-visit. It is a perfect place to support local artisans, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy the rich heritage of Odisha.
2. Ekamra Utsav
Ekamra Utsav – A Grand Cultural Festival of Bhubaneswar
Ekamra Utsav is a vibrant cultural festival in Bhubaneswar that celebrates the city’s art, heritage, and traditions. The name comes from Ekamra Kshetra, the ancient name of Bhubaneswar, which is known for its rich history and temples. This festival brings together music, dance, crafts, and food, offering a complete cultural experience.
What You Can Enjoy at Ekamra Utsav?
- Classical & Folk Performances – Experience Odissi dance, folk music, and traditional plays by talented artists.
- Handicraft & Handloom Stalls – Buy beautiful Pattachitra paintings, Sambalpuri sarees, terracotta items, and more.
- Traditional Odia Food – Taste delicious local dishes like Dalma, Pitha, and Chhena Poda.
- Workshops & Art Exhibitions – Learn about Odisha’s heritage through interactive sessions and live demonstrations.
Why Visit Ekamra Utsav?
If you want to experience the true essence of Odisha’s culture then Ekamra Utsav is a must-visit. It is the perfect place to enjoy traditional art, shop for unique crafts, and savor authentic Odia flavors, all in one festival.
3. Adivasi Mela
Adivasi Mela – A Celebration of Odisha’s Tribal Culture
Adivasi Mela is one of the oldest and most popular fair in Bhubaneswar that showcases the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of Odisha’s tribal communities. Held every year, this fair lets you see tribal art, buy handicrafts, and taste traditional tribal food.
What you can see at Adivasi Mela?
- Tribal Handicrafts & Handlooms – You can buy handmade products like bamboo crafts, Dokra jewelry, tribal paintings, and beautiful handwoven sarees.
- Traditional Tribal Food – Enjoy unique tribal dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients.
- Cultural Performances – Witness live performances of tribal folk dances, music, and storytelling.
- Tribal Huts & Exhibitions – Explore life-sized tribal huts that showcase the simple and sustainable lifestyle of different tribal groups.
- Organic & Herbal Products – The fair also features natural and herbal products made by tribal communities.
Why Visit Adivasi Mela?
Adivasi Mela is the perfect place to learn about Odisha’s tribal heritage, support local artisans, and enjoy a unique cultural experience. Whether you love art, food, or history, this fair has something special for everyone.
4. Murtika Mela
Murtika Mela – A Celebration of Pottery & Handicrafts in Bhubaneswar
Murtika Mela is a special fair in Bhubaneswar that promotes traditional pottery, terracotta art, and clay handicrafts. Organized by the Odisha Handicrafts Department, this mela brings together skilled artisans from different parts of the state to showcase their beautiful creations.
What You Can See at Murtika Mela?
- Clay Idols & Sculptures – Beautiful handmade idols of gods, goddesses, and traditional figures.
- Terracotta Home Decor – Unique terracotta items like flower pots, lamps, wall hangings, and showpieces.
- Earthenware & Pottery – Traditional clay pots, utensils, and decorative pieces made by expert potters.
- Live Demonstrations – Watch artisans create amazing clay artworks right in front of you.
Why Visit Murtika Mela?
If you love handmade crafts and want to support local artisans, Murtika Mela is a must-visit. You can buy eco-friendly products, learn about Odisha’s pottery traditions, and even try your hand at pottery-making.
5. Sisir Saras Bhubaneswar
Sisir Saras – A Rural Fair Celebrating Handicrafts & Culture in Bhubaneswar
Sisir Saras is a popular rural fair in Bhubaneswar that showcases handmade products, traditional crafts, and organic goods from different parts of India. Organized by the Odisha Rural Development & Marketing Society (ORMAS), this fair provides a platform for rural artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and small entrepreneurs to display and sell their products.
What You Can Explore at Sisir Saras?
- Handmade Crafts & Textiles – Beautiful handicrafts, handloom fabrics, jute bags, bamboo products, and more.
- Organic & Natural Products – Pure honey, herbal cosmetics, spices, and homemade food items.
- Live Demonstrations – Watch artisans and rural entrepreneurs showcase their skills.
- Cultural Performances – Enjoy folk dances, music, and traditional art forms.
- Delicious Rural Cuisine – Taste authentic village-style food made with fresh ingredients.
Why Visit Sisir Saras?
If you want to experience rural India’s rich culture, buy eco-friendly products, and support small artisans, Sisir Saras is a must-visit. It is the perfect place to enjoy traditional art, shop for handmade items, and explore Odisha’s rural heritage.
Conclusion
Bhubaneswar hosts many colorful melas that showcase its rich culture, traditions, and heritage. Each fair offers something unique, from handicrafts and handlooms to food and cultural performances. Visiting these melas is a great way to experience the true essence of Odisha. So, don’t miss the chance to explore and enjoy these amazing fairs in the city.
