JOYPURHAT, Mar 8: The centuries-old Gopinathpur Dol Purnima Fair in Akkelpur, Joypurhat, has once again come alive with the traditional horse market.
The fair being held for over 500 years, attracts buyers, sellers, and spectators from across the country, creating a bustling atmosphere filled with bargaining, calls, and excitement.
On Friday afternoon, a field visit revealed a moderate number of horses brought to the market this year. Among them, a tall and elegant horse named 'Yubraj' drew the most attention. This Indian Thoroughbred is priced at Tk 11 lakh, though the owner had yet to sell it as of Friday evening, waiting for the desired price.
The horse belongs to Shahriar Islam Sagar from Dhamoirhat in Naogaon. He said the gray-colour horse is around five-and-a-half years old, extremely fast, and has won several racing competitions. He has personally cared for the animal, and so far the highest bid received has been Tk 7.5 lakh. "If someone offers Tk 10 lakh, I will sell the horse," he added.
Many horse traders and buyers said, their ancestors also participated in the fair, and they continue the family tradition.
Earlier, the fairgrounds were vast enough to organize races, but now the space has shrunk, causing some challenges in trading and demonstrations.
Imdadul Haque, a trader at the fair, noted that the grandeur of the horse fair has been gradually diminishing. "With less space for racing, it's becoming harder to showcase the horses properly, which also affects sales," he said.
Akram Hossain, who came from Dinajpur to buy a horse, said this year's fair saw a good number of horses, though high-quality breeds remain limited. The large Indian Thoroughbred, Yubraj, has become the main attraction.
Ranendra Krishna Priya, a caretaker of Gopinathpur Temple, said the fair is held annually during Dol Purnima. "This year marks the 519th edition, which started on March 3. Although the fair is scheduled for 13 days, it is extended if necessary," he added. Joypurhat's Deputy Commissioner also visited the fair. The event is considered one of the most historic fairs in northern Bangladesh.
Akkelpur UNO Farzana Jannat said, "The Gopinathpur Fair is ancient and traditional. The local union parishad chairmen have been instructed to ensure smooth management, and the administration is closely monitoring overall arrangements."
