Jammu, November 5,2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the annual Jhiri Mela at Baba Jitto’s temple complex near Jammu, paying rich tributes to the great farmer saint Baba Jitto, revered across the region for his ideals of honesty, justice, and selfless service.
Speaking on the occasion, the LG said the Jhiri Mela is not merely a religious congregation but a symbol of farmers’ pride and cultural unity. He urged people to imbibe the values of Baba Jitto, who sacrificed his life for truth, justice, and the dignity of labour, setting an everlasting example of integrity and service to humanity.
“Baba Jitto’s life continues to inspire generations to uphold the spirit of fairness and self-respect in every sphere of life. His message of selfless service, equality, and hard work remains deeply relevant today as we strive to build a prosperous and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir,” said LG Manoj Sinha.
The Jhiri Mela, one of North India’s largest annual rural fairs, attracts thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists from Jammu, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and other parts of the country. The fair celebrates the agrarian culture of Jammu and promotes traditional art, craft, music, and local cuisine.
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the District Administration Jammu, has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the week-long festivities. Various departments, including Agriculture, Handicrafts, Handloom, and Rural Development, have set up exhibition stalls to showcase government schemes and support programs for farmers and artisans.
The LG also interacted with visitors, local farmers, and artisans, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering the farming community, promoting rural livelihoods, and preserving J&K’s rich cultural heritage.
He commended the efforts of the district administration, Jammu Municipal Corporation, and security agencies for their seamless coordination and urged visitors to maintain cleanliness and follow eco-friendly practices during the Mela.
The Jhiri Mela, held annually in memory of Baba Jitto and his daughter Bua Kour, is a vibrant celebration of faith, devotion, and rural resilience, reflecting the timeless values of honesty, equality, and sacrifice that continue to shape the social fabric of Jammu and Kashmir.
