The Madarbaba Fair, a significant religious event for both Hindus and Muslims, has commenced today. Held in Daunne Hill, Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality-6, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East), the fair will continue until Fagun 14 (March 2025).
Thousands of devotees from Nepal and India have already gathered for the event. The influx of visitors and marketplace vendors began last Friday, according to Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality Chairman Ghanshyam Giri.
Located 21 kilometers east of Bardaghat on the East-West Highway, the Madarthan fair traditionally starts a week before Shivaratri, attracting millions of devotees from Nepal and India. Security measures have been strengthened to ensure smooth proceedings.
Chairman Giri emphasized that the Madarbaba Shrine is one of Nepal’s most significant and historic sites for the Muslim community. However, it is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists as well. The main shrine is located at Madari Hill in Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality, while its entrance lies in Susta Rural Municipality-2, Mahalbari, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta West). The shrine is accessible by foot.
Mahalbari Mosque’s religious leader, Amirullah Ansari, has once again been appointed to the traditional seat at Madari Hill. Ward Chairman Nuren Shah of Binayi Triveni Rural Municipality-6 stated that last year’s fair saw over one million visitors, and a similar turnout is expected this year.
Historical records suggest that Madarbaba practiced penance in various locations, including Nawalparasi and Phulbari Park in Butwal. There is a widespread belief that offering prayers at this shrine grants childless couples the blessing of children.
To maintain order, the Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) District Administration Office has banned alcohol sales in and around the fairgrounds, as past incidents linked to alcohol consumption have caused disturbances.
Assistant Chief District Officer Madhav Prasad Sharma emphasized that security forces, including Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, National Investigation Department, Nepal Army’s disaster response team, and other units, have been deployed to ensure safety during the fair.
