In the scenic town of Sarangkheda, nestled in the southern Maharashtra district of Nandurbar, a captivating tradition unfolds every December. Spanning over 350 years, this deeply rooted tradition draws people from all corners. Sarangkheda is renowned for hosting the spectacular Sarangkheda Chetak Festival, an extraordinary horse fair that enchants all attendees. Scheduled from December 21, 2023, to January 7, 2024, the festival symbolizes India's horse heritage, featuring around 2,500 stunning horses from various regions, ready to captivate spectators with their grandeur.

Organizers, including the visionary Jaypalsinh Rawal, bring this tradition-rich festival to life. Jaypalsinh Rawal, Organizer of Chetak Festival, emphasizes, "Our primary aim at the Chetak festival is to preserve and celebrate the profound cultural legacy and rich heritage of Maharashtra. Chetak represents not just the essence of Maharashtra but also stands as a source of pride for India. I extend a warm invitation to people from all walks of life to join us, experience our hospitality, and immerse themselves in the beauty of Khandeshi customs."

Vishal Ganju, Co-organizer of Chetak Festival Sarangkheda, adds, "The magnificence of the Chetak Festival not only celebrates local heritage but also breathes life into the regional economy, nurturing historical essence while paving the way for new encounters and opportunities."

The festival's heritage is intricately linked with royalty, dating back to the era of the esteemed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who acquired war horses from this fair. Since then, the event has attracted horse enthusiasts, farmers, traders, and dignitaries, including the Nizams, who frequented Sarangkheda to acquire these majestic creatures. Nestled near the Tapi River, the location is ideally suited for hosting horses from diverse regions such as Balochistan, Arabia, and various parts of India.

This year's event promises an even more splendid showcase of Maharashtra's equestrian culture, introducing several key attractions:

·         Horse Shows: Witness the grace, beauty, and unique talents of these majestic creatures, celebrating Maharashtra's cultural heritage.

·         Equine Premier League: Experience intense competition among teams and riders in exhilarating equine sports challenges that add a new layer of excitement to the festival.

·         Tent City: Luxurious accommodations nestled by the Tapi River offer comfort and tranquility, providing a perfect blend of nature and the festival's vibrant energy.

·         Carnivals: Explore stalls filled with local handicrafts, savor mouth watering street food, and immerse yourself in cultural performances.

·         Live Shows and Concerts: Enjoy electrifying live performances, setting the stage ablaze with music, dance, and entertainment.

·         Consumer Expo: Engage in the Consumer Expo offering an array of interactive exhibits and stalls presenting a wide variety of equestrian products and services.

Around 12 lakh people from all sections of society from across India visit this show in 18 days. This includes members of royal families, Bollywood celebrities, business tycoons, top politicians, and more. The festivities commence with "Datta Jayanti," signifying the beginning of this unique horse fair. The festival boasts an incredible display of horse skills, painting a picture of rural charm interwoven with vibrant energy."