Dashain Fair in Birgunj: A Celebration of Culture and Jeri’s Sweet Popularity
The Dashain festival, one of the most significant and widely celebrated events in Nepal, brings with it a vibrant fair atmosphere, especially in the town of Birgunj. Known for its cultural richness and diverse community, Birgunj attracts visitors from various regions, making the Dashain Fair a focal point of celebration. Among the numerous attractions at this fair, one sweet delicacy stands out: Jeri, also known as Jalebi.
The Cultural Significance of Dashain
Dashain, celebrated over 15 days, is a time for families to reunite, pay homage to deities, and participate in various traditional rituals. The festival marks the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo demon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This festive period is characterized by family gatherings, feasting, and various community events, including fairs that showcase local culture and traditions.
In Birgunj, the Dashain Fair offers a unique blend of cultural displays, traditional performances, and a bustling marketplace filled with local crafts and food. People from all walks of life come together to celebrate, creating a lively atmosphere filled with joy and excitement.
The Star of the Fair: Jeri
Among the various stalls and attractions, Jeri has carved a niche as a beloved sweet during the Dashain Fair. This spiral-shaped, deep-fried treat is made from a fermented batter, then dipped in sugary syrup, creating a delightful combination of crispiness and sweetness. Its affordability and availability make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
As one strolls through the fair, the enticing aroma of freshly prepared Jeri wafts through the air, drawing people toward the colorful stalls. It’s a common sight to see families and friends sharing plates of Jeri, enjoying the sweet treat together while creating cherished memories. For many, purchasing Jeri is not just about satisfying their sweet tooth but also about participating in a long-standing tradition.

A Growing Demand
This year, the demand for Jeri at the Dashain Fair in Birgunj has increased significantly. Vendors from nearby Indian regions and various districts in Nepal, including Parsa, Bara, and Rautahat, have flocked to the fair to sell this popular sweet. Suresh Mukhia, a vendor with five years of experience in selling Jeri, mentioned that compared to previous years, business has seen a notable increase. He noted, “Every visitor to the fair seems to want to try Jeri. It has become an integral part of the festival experience.”
During the one-week fair, Suresh anticipates a profit of around 40,000 rupees, a testament to the sweet’s popularity. People visiting the fair often don’t leave without indulging in Jeri and taking some home as a gift for family and friends. This exchange of sweets during the festival enhances the spirit of Dashain, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Rising Prices and Economic Factors
Despite its popularity, the price of Jeri has increased this year. Last year, it sold for 160 rupees per kilogram, but this year it has risen to 200 rupees. The rise in prices is attributed to the increasing costs of essential ingredients such as refined oil and sugar. Vendors are facing challenges in maintaining affordability while ensuring quality, and this has become a topic of concern among both sellers and buyers.
Suresh explained, “While we strive to keep prices reasonable, the increase in oil and sugar prices directly impacts our costs. We hope that this is just a temporary situation.” This sentiment resonates with many vendors at the fair who are grappling with similar challenges.
Health Considerations
With the rise in popularity of Jeri, health concerns have also surfaced. Medical professionals have raised awareness about the potential health risks associated with consuming sweets from roadside stalls. Dr. Udaynarayan Singh from Narayani Hospital emphasized the importance of hygiene when preparing food in open environments. The use of repeatedly heated oil and the exposure of food to dust and pollution can lead to digestive issues and other health complications.
Dr. Singh noted, “While enjoying Jeri in moderation is generally safe, it’s essential to consider the source and preparation methods. People should be cautious about consuming sweets prepared in unhygienic conditions.” He also pointed out that some food colorings used in making Jeri may not be safe for consumption, advising consumers to be mindful of what they eat.
Conclusion
The Dashain Fair in Birgunj is more than just a celebration; it is a cultural event that brings people together, showcasing the essence of community and tradition. Jeri, as the sweet highlight of the fair, symbolizes joy and togetherness, reminding everyone of the importance of sharing and celebrating with loved ones.
As the fair continues to attract visitors from near and far, the spirit of Dashain thrives in the vibrant streets of Birgunj, with Jeri at the center of it all. While challenges like rising prices and health concerns loom, the love for this traditional sweet remains strong, ensuring that it continues to be an integral part of the Dashain festivities for years to come.