CM, PM wish Matua people as Baruni Mela begins

With the Assembly election slated next year, the leading political parties are wooing the large Matua community to get votes

- RAJIB CHAKRABORTY

The annual Baruni Mela of the Matua community commenced today in Thakurnagar, drawing thousands of devotees from across India, as well as from Bangladesh and Myanmar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief minister Mamata Banerjee both wished for the grand success of the seven-day long Baruni Mela of Matua Communities.

"Tributes to Shree Shree Harichand Thakur on his Jayanti. He lives on in the hearts of countless people thanks to his emphasis on service and spirituality. He devoted his life to uplifting the marginalized and promoting equality, compassion and justice. I will never forget my visits to Thakurnagar in West Bengal and Orakandi in Bangladesh, where I paid homage to him," PM tweeted on X-handle. He furthermore wrote: "My best wishes for the #MatuaDharmaMahaMela2025, which will showcase the glorious Matua community culture. Our government has undertaken many initiatives for the Matua community's welfare and we will keep working tirelessly for their wellbeing in the times to come."