A big cattle fair is held in Amritsar twice a year, once on the occasion of Baisakhi and second time on the occasion of Diwali. It is held in an extensive piece of land called the Mai Mandi. It is walled all around. In the middle there is a big tank for the cattle to have a bath and a drink. There are rows of shady trees to afford cool shade to both men and animals.
On the occasions of Baisakhi and Diwali, thousands of buyers sellers visit the cattle fair. They come from all parts of the country. They bring with them animals of the finest breed. There are different sections for different kinds of animals.
In one section, you can see buffaloes, in another cows, in a third horses and so on. You can go in for a buffalo, a horse, a donkey or a camel or a bull. All the animals are well groomed and present a beautiful appearance. Some of the animals are a great attraction. They are very well reared. They fetch very high prices.
These fairs are as well known as some famous religious fairs. In these big cattle fairs, people come from far off places with their choicest animals. These fairs are well worth a visit. Animals like buffaloes, cows, horses, bulls, donkeys and camels etc. are brought for sale.
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A big town of tents comes into being. There are separate tents for men and animals. The fairs last for a week. These fair are organized by the local Municipal Committee. They are a great source of income to the Committee.
These cattle fairs are very attractive and useful. The animals are tied in rows and there are foot-paths for the people to walk upon. People purchase animals according to their liking and choice. An agricultural exhibition also forms a part of the fairs.
This is of great advantage to the farmers. They learn from it the usefulness of modern implements and tools. Sanitary and electric arrangements in these fairs are quite satisfactory. There is also a temporary veterinary hospital for the duration of the fair.
There are temporary hutments for the shopkeepers who make hay while the sun shines. Some people go to these fairs only for recreation. At the end of the fairs, there are horse races and wrestling matches which provide a lot of fun and enjoyment.
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These cattle fairs have economic, educative and recreative values. They are a good opportunity to acquaint the poor illiterate peasants with the latest veterinary researches and improvements. They can get some knowledge of their nurture and their feed.
The occasional holding of these fairs is essential in an agricultural country like India.