Luguburu Ghantabari Fair
The Luguburu Ghantabari Fair is an annual religious event for the Santhal tribal community, held in Lalpania, in Bokaro, Jharkhand. It takes place every year during Kartik Purnima and is centered around the Luguburu Ghantabari Dharamgarh, a revered religious site dedicated to Lugu Baba. The event attracts large numbers of Santhal devotees from across India and abroad, particularly from West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, Nepal and Bangladesh also.
== Historical significance ==
Luguburu Ghantabari is steeped in Santhali tradition and faith, believed to date back centuries. The site holds historical importance for the Santhal community, symbolizing their culture, spirituality, and connection with nature. The gathering serves not only as a religious ritual but also as a platform for preserving and promoting Santhal cultural heritage. The fair was re-established in 2000, and since then, it has grown in prominence.
== Religious activities ==
The religious aspect of the fair involves rituals and prayers dedicated to Lugu Baba, a deity worshiped by the Santhals. The worship is carried out in the natural cave situated on top of the Lugu hill, which is surrounded by scenic landscapes and dense forests. Devotees often embark on a long trek to reach the cave for the darshan (viewing) of Lugu Baba. The rituals involve traditional offerings and prayers for the well-being of the community.
== Cultural and Social Significance ==
In addition to its religious aspects, the fair serves as a significant cultural event, showcasing Santhali music, dance, and traditions. The fair also offers a space for tribal communities to discuss social issues and strategies for promoting Santhal culture and heritage. In recent years, political leaders, including the chief minister of Jharkhand, have actively participated in the event, reinforcing its importance.
== Accesability ==
=== By Road ===
The fair site is approximately 70 kilometers from the Bokaro district headquarters. It can be reached via the Bokaro–Gomia Road. Visitors coming from Ranchi (about 130 kilometers away) can take the Ranchi–Ramgarh–Gomia route to reach the fairgrounds. Public buses, private taxis, and vehicles regularly operate along these routes, especially during the Kartik Purnima festival. Additionally, visitors can hire cabs from the nearest town, Gomia, which is about 20 kilometers from the venue.
=== By Air ===
The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, about 130 kilometers away. From the airport, one can either hire a taxi or take a bus to Gomia or Bokaro and then proceed to Lalpania.
=== By Train ===
Gomia Railway Station is the nearest station, situated around 20 kilometers from the venue. Trains from Ranchi and Bokaro Steel City frequently stop at Gomia, from where visitors can take local transport to reach the event.
This accessibility allows large numbers of devotees to attend the fair each year, with local government often providing additional transport and services during the festival period to accommodate the influx of visitors.