The Madhavpur Mela in Porbandar, which began on Ram Navami, commemorates the marriage of Lord Krishna and Rukmini. According to folklore, Rukmini, believed to be from the Northeast, was married to Lord Krishna at Madhavpur in Gujarat, symbolising a cultural bridge between the eastern and western parts of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended greetings on the occasion of the Madhavpur Mela in Porbandar, inviting people to visit the vibrant cultural festival that celebrates India’s unity in diversity.In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the fair reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage while reinforcing the deep-rooted bond between Gujarat and the Northeastern states.“My best wishes for the ongoing Madhavpur Mela taking place in Porbandar, Gujarat. This vibrant celebration highlights our glorious culture and at the same time it reinforces the timeless cultural bond between Gujarat and the Northeast. This festival brings together diverse traditions, reflecting the true spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.’ I call upon people to visit this Mela!” he said.
My best wishes for the ongoing Madhavpur Mela taking place in Porbandar, Gujarat.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 29, 2026
This vibrant celebration highlights our glorious culture and at the same time it reinforces the timeless cultural bond between Gujarat and the Northeast.
This festival brings together diverse… https://t.co/KiqLe29UIB pic.twitter.com/xRxiPJ21lY
Organised by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Gujarat government, the annual fair features a rich showcase of folk dances, music, handicrafts, and performances by artists from Northeastern states.

A key highlight of the five-day celebration is a grand chariot procession carrying the idol of Lord Krishna, drawing large crowds of devotees and tourists.The festival stands as a significant platform for promoting national integration and cultural exchange, reflecting the ethos of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”

The Prime Minister also shared a clip from his Mann Ki Baat address from April 2022, where he had earlier highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the Madhavpur Mela, describing it as a unique example of India’s unity in diversity.
(State Correspondent)
Ira Singh





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