Gotmar Fair to be Held in Pandhurna, Madhya Pradesh on September 11

Pandhurna in Madhya Pradesh will host the Gotmar fair on September 11, a tradition that dates back more than three centuries. The fair takes place on the banks of the Jam River, where participants from two neighboring villages engage in a ritual stone‑throwing contest that locals describe as a "blood Holi."\n\nThe event, celebrated for its unique cultural spectacle, draws spectators from across the region. While it is hailed as a heritage fair, authorities have historically taken measures to manage crowds and mitigate injuries during the stone‑throwing bouts.\n\nOrganisers have confirmed that the fair will proceed as planned, with local officials monitoring safety protocols. The Gotmar fair remains a rare example of a living tradition that blends folk sport with ritual, continuing to attract curiosity and debate about its place in contemporary society.