Paribesh Bandhab Haat: Celebration of tradition and sustainability

Upon entering the Paribesh Bandhab Haat, one is immediately carried away to a different realm of vibrant hues, cheerful faces and a serene atmosphere nestled in the lap of nature.

- ROUSHAN CHATTERJEE

Against the backdrop of lush greenery and beside the Damodar River, the fair welcomes visitors with stalls of intricately crafted home decor, clay dolls, and homemade traditional sweets and food items. This haat blended the concept of sustainability with tradition, offering a stark contrast to the bustling malls and markets of the city.

Held from 24 December to 31 December, this eight-day eco-friendly fair at Mahisrekha, Madhabpur village, Howrah, was organised by the Madhabpur Paribesh Chetana Samity. Walking into the fair felt like stepping into a postcard of rural Bengal. Stalls numbering around 35 to 40 highlighted how the local community is continuing to preserve their age-old tradition.