Empowering Women at Sonepur

In the dwindling glory of the Sonepur Animal Fair, a transformative tale unfolds as young women find empowerment on the stage. Once hailed as Asia’s largest cattle fair, the month-long Sonepur Mela, held annually in November-December, now draws attention primarily for its unique theatre performances.

Dancing for a Future: Breaking Chains and Building Dreams

Diya Kumari, a 22-year-old dancer from the New Gulab Vikas Theatre, shares her journey from being sold to a Varanasi brothel to finding solace and family among her fellow performers. The fair, historically renowned for trading elephants and horses during Chandragupta Maurya’s reign, has evolved into a platform for women seeking financial independence.

Cultural Shift: From Folklore to Bawdy Performances

Over the years, the fair has witnessed a transition from historical folklore to bawdy performances by women. While daytime attendance has sharply declined from 5-7 lakh to 50,000, the nighttime scene is vibrant, with five theatre companies featuring around 50 women each.

The Show Unveiled: Lights, Music, and Controversy

As the curtains rise at 7:30 p.m., the stage illuminates with 500 sparkling lights, showcasing women in vibrant attire. The performances, set to Bhojpuri songs with double entendre, attract a diverse audience. However, controversies surround the suggestive interactions, with men making gestures and the women responding with equal fervor.

Behind the Scenes: Struggles and Triumphs

Theatre owners emphasize safety measures, with CCTV cameras and barricades, aiming to protect the performers. Each theatre, owned jointly by a group of individuals, invests significantly in the setup, costing between ₹30-₹40 lakh for the season. The women, many married or mothers, manage childcare on breaks and sleep in modest accommodations.

A Search for Empowerment: Beyond Stigma and Stereotypes

Despite societal judgments, the women, like Shaheen from Rourkela and Sneha from Noida, embrace their roles for financial stability. Shaheen, a seasoned dancer, earns up to ₹1.5 lakh by the fair’s end, while Sneha, a beginner, aspires to achieve social media fame.

In the heart of the Sonepur Fair, these women redefine tradition, finding strength, support, and a path to financial independence amidst the evolving landscape of this historic event.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindu