The annual ‘Nakhasa Bazaar’ at the Chaiti fair in Kashipur, known for rare horse breeds and a 170-year-old tradition, has been cancelled this year due to unavailability of land. The market once drew traders from across India, including bandits like Sultana Daku and Phoolan Devi. The closure marks the end of an era, as the land has been divided among the Panda family, custodians of the fair.
Established in 1855 by Hussain Baksh, the Nakhasa market was once a thriving hub for traders from various regions, selling horses in a price range of Rs 40,000 to Rs 40 lakh. Over 50 horses were sold every year, with prized breeds like Marwari, Sindhi, Kathiawadi, Spiti, and Manipuri being star attractions. The closure of the market is seen as a loss for the region, reflecting the socio-economic dynamics of the area.
The news of the bazaar’s closure came as a shock to traders who had travelled long distances, only to be turned away upon arrival. The market’s significance went beyond commerce, serving as a cultural institution that intertwined history and trade. As traders packed up and left, the once lively field was left empty, signaling the end of an era for the Nakhasa Bazaar.
