In a groundbreaking addition to the annual Maghi Mela festivities, polo matches are poised to make their debut near the bustling livestock market of Lambi Dhabh village on January 11 and 12. This marks the first time the traditional festival will feature the spirited sport, pending governmental approval.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Punjab Horse Show, a dedicated group of equestrian enthusiasts passionate about promoting horse sports in the region. Should the government grant permission, four teams hailing from Chandigarh are expected to compete, showcasing their skills in what promises to be an exhilarating display of polo.
Sirbeerinder Singh Sidhu, a respected horse breeder and founding member of the Punjab Horse Show, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture. “We have secured two acres on rent in the village to host four arena polo matches. As newcomers to polo, we are committed to learning the sport’s rules and regulations diligently. Our goal is to cultivate a strong local team by next year,” Sidhu stated.
However, the project awaits formal approval. Gurditt Singh, Assistant Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, confirmed that no official application for hosting the polo matches has been received yet. “We are yet to receive any formal request for permission to hold polo matches,” Singh noted.
The Maghi Mela, observed annually in Muktsar, holds deep historical significance as it commemorates the valor of 40 Sikh soldiers who sacrificed their lives fighting the Mughal forces in 1705. Traditionally, the mela has been a vibrant showcase of livestock and cultural competitions.
Adding to the event’s evolving landscape, a local kennel club has submitted a request to the district administration to organize a dog show on January 12. “While the state government is not conducting any livestock championships this year, the kennel club has taken the initiative to host a dog show,” the officer explained.
Last year’s festivities included a horse show organized by passionate enthusiasts, a feature that will not return this time around. Moreover, the national livestock championship, integrated into the Maghi Mela during the SAD-BJP administration, has been discontinued. This championship previously featured nearly 70 competitions encompassing horses, cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, dogs, and camels, highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
As preparations ramp up, the district administration has meticulously divided the town into seven sectors to ensure smooth execution of the mela’s events. The introduction of polo matches and a potential dog show signals a new chapter for the Maghi Mela, blending tradition with contemporary sporting events.
Residents and visitors alike are eagerly anticipating the festivities, hopeful that the inclusion of polo will add a dynamic flair to the revered cultural celebration. If approved, the polo matches could pave the way for more diverse activities in future editions of the Maghi Mela, further enriching this historic festival.
