A carnival that aims to empower women and to celebrate the authentic culture of rural India, Bhimthadi Jatra Pune provides an opportunity to immerse in the hues, flavors, and customs of the villages of the country. Inspired by the medieval village fairs that were held on the banks of the Bheema River in Bhimthadi Taluka of Maharashtra, this one of a kind cultural extravaganza comprises of intriguing exhibitions, flea markets, food stalls, live shows and much more. However, what makes Bhimthadi Jatra truly stand out on the cultural calendar is the focus on empowering the women from the rural parts of the country.

Every year, this wonderful event organised by the Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, showcases the intricate and spectacular handicrafts made by the rural artisans of the region. The spotlight is particularly on the female artisans of the rural areas, in an attempt to generate channels of revenue for the masters of the forgotten arts and crafts of India. In the face of urbanization and the rising popularity of mass produced goods, the local handicrafts industries are sadly losing their popularity.

The Bhimthadi Jatra Pune is an initiative to rekindle the lost glory of the traditional handicrafts and to thereby support the talented women who create these works of exemplary beauty.

At the Bhimthadi Jatra Christmas Edition, you will not only find handicrafts exhibitions but also stalls selling homemade delicacies, as well as delightful performances by local artists. The atmosphere is that of a traditional village fair, something that is hard to spot in Pune at any other time of the year. While you revel in the joyful spirit of the carnival, you will be playing a role in the financial and social empowerment of the women of the neighboring rural areas and will be supporting their skill development that will help them build a viable career.

One of the largest platforms in Maharashtra for women support groups, Bhimthadi Jatra is a much-awaited event for the aficionados of culture as well as for those who wish to give back something to the society.

One of the success stories of Bhimthadi Jatra is that of the Parivartan Mahila Bachat Gat in Thoratwadi, a small initiative that received much recognition at the carnival, which continues to support women by allowing them to monetize their sewing skills. Another organisation that has benefited due to the carnival is the Pariwar Mahila Bachat Gat Kalamb, Taluka Indapur, a women support group that produces and sells baby wear to hospitals.

The previous editions of the Bhimthadi Jatra have all been immensely successful, with a footfall of more than 4 lakh visitors last year. An even larger number of visitors are expected to turn up at the Bhimthadi Jatra Christmas Edition, which will be held from 22nd December to 25th December 2017. The city of Pune has been chosen as the venue for this event because it is considered to be the cultural and educational capital of the state of Maharashtra and has managed to preserve the local traditions despite being a metropolitan hub in most aspects. There could be no better venue for this carnival that aims to keep the flame of rural heritage burning in the modern times.

This Christmas, during the festive season that celebrates the spirit of giving, you too can get involved in a philanthropic cause by visiting the Bhimthadi Jatra. So do join the joyful celebrations of a culture that has diverse yet harmonious facets, and contribute towards keeping this rich heritage alive by your presence at the Bhimthadi Jatra Christmas Edition.