Chamliyal Mela in Jammu and Kashmir is a symbol of the Hindu-Muslim unity amidst the political tensions of India and Pakistan. Every year, Hindus and Muslims converge at Baba Chamliyal’s dargah located in the Ramgarh sector of Samba district on the international border between the two countries. While sweets are not exchanged here, the gathering of people from both sides indicates a message of peace. The district administration has made all arrangements for a fair to be held on June 22, 42 km away from the capital Jammu. The public works department carried out repair work on the road leading to the shrine to facilitate devotees. According to the Deputy Commissioner, all measures have been taken to ensure peaceful conduct of the fair.
For over 335 years, Baba Chamliyal lived in the village of Syedianwala in the Sialkot region of Pakistan. This annual fair is held in Syedianwala, Pakistan and Chamliyal village, India, with devotees participating from far and wide. After the countries brokered a ceasefire agreement in 2003, civilians began visiting the shrine in large numbers. During the fair, Pakistan offers a chadar at the shrine in the Ramgarh sector of India, while sugar, clay, and syrup are sent from here.
This communal gathering promotes harmony and amity among the different communities residing on both sides of the border. The Chamliyal Mela is a living example of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate unity and brotherhood.
