ANJALI YADAV/ Dehradun
The famous Jhanda Mela underway in Dehradun appears to be seeing fewer Gen Z visitors this year. Many young Doonites are skipping the annual fair due to crowding, safety concerns and other issues. The changing choices of the younger generation may be behind this trend though all agree upon the spiritual atmosphere of the Jhanda Mela.
Once a major attraction for children and young people, the fair used to draw large numbers of families and students every year. However, shifting leisure habits and growing safety concerns appear to be influencing how younger residents opt to spend their time. College student Tanuja Mehra said that the fair still holds cultural importance but the experience has changed over the years. “Earlier, we used to visit the Mela with friends and family, but now the crowd becomes overwhelming. It is difficult to move around and enjoy the event,” she said while recommending that the fair could be shifted to a larger area.
Another student, Aman Jot Singh, who says that he used to visit the Jhanda Mela every year, won’t be going this year, as he pointed to safety concerns amid overcrowding. “There are frequent reports of mobile theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas during such events. Because of that, many students prefer avoiding it,” he said.
Vansh Rawat said that many young people now prefer other recreational options. “Many of us choose cafés, malls or smaller events where the environment feels more comfortable,” he said. Rawat says that he gets anxious thinking about potential scenarios in such large crowds.
Ramesh Chauhan, who owns a stall at the fair, said that he expects a larger crowd on Saturday and Sunday when most people are not at work. He said that he has also noticed a decline in teenage individuals.
Despite the changing preferences among younger visitors, many Dehradun parents say that the Mela continues to hold strong religious and cultural significance. Housewife Mamta said that visiting the fair remains an expression of faith for many families. “For us, it is connected with Astha. Jhanda Mela is part of Dehradun’s heritage and traditions,” she said. Mamta said that she avoids shopping and the swings at the Mela due to overcrowding but still prefers to visit the fair every year.
Another parent, Khushboo Badeja, said that the spiritual atmosphere of the festival remains special. “Despite the crowd, the rituals and the overall atmosphere make the visit meaningful. We prefer to go there early in the morning with our children so it remains safe and they can also understand the cultural significance of the festival,” she said.
