MITHI, Nov 7: The annual mela of one of the legendary figures of Thar, Marvi, was commemorated with traditional zeal and enthusiasm on Tuesday and Wednesday near her native village Bhalwa, Nagarparkar Taluka, by the Marvi Yadgaar Cultural Committee, Bhalwa.

Thousands of Tharis, including politicians, Nazims, councillors, businessmen, academicians, intellectuals, vocalists, and children participated in the two-day mela.

Scores of camels and horses, brought to the mela from various villages, took part in races.

The businessmen had set up stalls under shamyanas or in huts made of straw to the south of Marvi jo Khooh (i.e. the well from which Marvi used to provide water to her goats and sheep).

While speaking as the guest of honour on the occasion, Ramsingh Sodho, Naib Nazim, Tharparkar District, said, “We Tharis realize that a nation which loses its connection with history soon loses its identity. Hence, we have gathered here to pay glowing tributes to Marvi, the legendary woman, for her chastity and patriotism.”

He further said that taking cognizance of her greatness in the history of Thar, the district Nazim had already announced that it would be public holiday in Thar on the day of her mela.

Airing his views, former MPA Hamirsingh Sodho said it seems beyond comprehension as to why the culture department, whose duty is to promote cultural activities in the country, has completely thrown Marvi in the sea of oblivion by not bothering to sanction any grant for her mela. “If those who are at the helm of affairs in the culture department have taken for granted that Marvi doesn’t occupy a significant place in the history of Sindh, then they should read the Sur Marvi of the Risalo of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai.”

Sadiq Faqir, Karim Faqir, Ustad Hussain Faqir, Yousuf Faqir, and Jeendo Khaskheli among other vocalists of Thar enthralled the participants of the mela with their folk songs.

Malakhro (wrestling) was also held on the occasion.