Poush Mela is Chittaranjan Park’s most beloved cultural gathering after Durga Puja, and the 2026 edition marks a milestone — fifty-one unbroken years of celebrating Bengali art, food, and community spirit in the heart of South Delhi. Organized by Bangiya Samaj, the fair transforms the Mela Ground into a vibrant rural-Bengal-in-the-city experience every January.
What to Expect
The three-day fair is built around handicrafts, performance arts, and food. Artisans from West Bengal and neighbouring states set up stalls selling Kantha embroidery, Dokra metalwork, Shantiniketan leather goods, terracotta pottery, and handloom sarees. Live stages host Baul singers, folk theatre excerpts (Jatra), Rabindra Sangeet recitals, and stand-up comedy in Bengali and Hindi.
Fashion Show & Children’s Drama
One of the headline attractions is the Bengali designer fashion show held on the evening of the second day, showcasing handloom and boutique creations. A dedicated children’s drama competition runs on the first morning, encouraging kids from CR Park’s resident families to perform short plays in Bengali. Art workshops — block printing, alpona design, and clay modelling — keep younger visitors busy throughout the weekend.
Food
The food court is reason enough to attend. January is pitha season, and the stalls serve Patishapta, Gokul Pitha, Roshogolla, Nolen Gur Sandesh, and hot Khichuri with Begun Bhaja. Expect queues at the popular stalls, especially on Saturday evening.
Practical Tips
- Evenings are busiest — visit on Friday morning for a relaxed experience
- Carry cash — most artisan stalls don’t accept UPI or cards
- Nearest metro — Nehru Enclave (Magenta Line), about 1.1 km walk
- Parking — extremely limited; auto-rickshaws from the metro station are the best option
- Photography — performers and artisans are generally happy to be photographed; ask before taking close-ups