Maghar Mahotsav

The Maghar Mahotsav is an annual cultural festival held in Maghar, Uttar Pradesh, India, in memory of the saint Kabir. Organized collaboratively by the Department of Tourism (UP), Department of Culture (UP), and the District Administration of Sant Kabir Nagar, the festival takes place every January. The event traces its history to 1937 when Raees Jaggulal Srivastava organized the Kabir Nirvan Mela. In 1955–56, local businessmen in Khalilabad arranged a two-day fair with public donations. Over time, the initiative evolved, and by 1987, discussions with district officials led to the festival being regularized as the Kabir Mahotsav.

The festival features cultural activities such as Kavi Sammelan, Bhajan, Folk Singing, Qawwali, and sports events, along with a fair where local merchants set up stalls. However, it was not held in 2012, 2017, and 2018 due to Assembly elections and budget constraints.

Recent editions include the 2021 festival, which was merged with the Spiritual Saint Yatra & Kabir Utsav and took place from February 23–25. The 2020 edition ran from January 12–18, inaugurated by Basti Divisional Commissioner Anil Sagar, featuring performances by folk singer Supriya Rawat and model-dancer Anshika Tyagi. In 2019, cultural programs like Kavi Sammelan and Mushaira were organized, with Jawabi Birha performed by Nitu Chanchal and Upendra Lal Yadav. The 2016 festival was inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Minister of State for Food & Ration Laxmikant Nishad, while the 2015 edition occurred during January 12–18.