Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Magic rings to fetch jobs, end familial discords, to get rid of any disease and to give birth to children are selling like hot cakes at Van Mela in Lal Parade ground in Bhopal.

The prices of these rings vary from Rs 250 to Rs 1, 100. The sellers of these rings advise a buyer to get taste the power of such rings. Even policemen are buying them with a smiling face, thinking such rings will end all problems.

Van Mela, traditionally known for promoting forest-related products and the rich heritage of tribal communities, is now creating controversy, which has included 12 unique stalls selling the products that are promoting superstition and do not have any relation to promoting forest products.

One of the sellers, Sudhir Agrawal, revealed that the rings were sourced from Haridwar, a city known for its spiritual and mystical heritage. The rings are available in various price ranges, starting at an affordable Rs 250 and going up to Rs 1100.

Agrawal claims that the Rs 1100 rings work the fastest and deliver the most effective results. He further added that these rings are for everyone, and they can be worn on any finger, Agrawal said, confidently addressing curious buyers.

The stall has been attracting significant attention, with many visitors drawn to the promise of quick fixes for life’s challenges. However, these claims have drawn criticism from organisers, who argue that such products promote superstition and have no place in the Van Mela. The event, intended to celebrate and support forest-based products and the traditions of tribal communities, is being overshadowed by these controversial stalls. 

Van Mela is only meant to showcase items that reflect the culture, heritage, and livelihoods of forests and different tribes. These magical rings have no connection to the forest or tribal traditions. Their inclusion undermines the purpose of the event and spreads superstition, said an organiser. 

‘Stalls promoting superstitious products will be banned’

Vibhash Thakur, Managing Director (MD) of MP state minor forest produce co-op federation told Free Press that such stalls that promote such superstitions and try to sell these alleged mystical products will not be permitted in this fair. He assured that the management will investigate all of the stalls and will ban all those stalls that are trying to promote such superstitious products.