Kalyanpur

Description

Introduction to Village

Kalyanpur, also known as Jhiri, is a scenic village located around 20 kilometers from Jammu city on the Jammu-Akhnoor road. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the village is famous for the annual Jhiri fair, which honors the local hero Baba Jitto, a symbol of justice and bravery. This event draws numerous visitors and showcases local traditions, crafts, and music, making Kalyanpur a unique blend of history and community spirit.

Historical Background and Meaning

Around 200-300 years ago, the area was known as Jhad, named after the vast number of trees that once covered the land. Over time, the region underwent modernization, and it eventually came to be known as Jhiri.

Population and Demographics: Overview of the Village

Kalyanpur (Jhiri) village is located within the Marh Tehsil and Marh Block, with the postal code 181210. Spanning an area of 277.2 hectares, the village is home to a population of 2,259 across 478 households, with a literacy rate of 66.83%. Primarily, the residents speak Dogri and Hindi. Kalyanpur has historical roots dating back 400-500 years and has evolved with a rich cultural heritage. Entry to the village is through Shamachak, and it exits through Kanachak, sharing its boundaries with neighboring villages such as Shamachak, Kanachak, Panjore, Dabbe, and Burj.

The village is home to a single Sikh household.

Famous Personalities and Achievements

Kalyanpur village in Jammu has been the birthplace and home to several distinguished personalities who have made significant contributions across various fields. Among the most notable figures is T.S. Thakur, the former Chief Justice of India, revered for his fair and decisive judgments. Colonel Deepak Sharma, currently posted in North Eastern India, serves with distinction in the Indian Army. Rajesh Sharma stands out as a dedicated social activist who has tirelessly worked for the upliftment of the underprivileged in the region. In the academic field, Dr. Meenakshi Sharma is a renowned academician and author celebrated for her research in sociology. Ms. Sunaina Sharma Mehta (KAS), serving as the Joint Director of Tourism for Jammu, and Ms. Preeti Sharma (JKAS), Assistant Commissioner in the State Taxes Department, Jammu, have both contributed to public service and the region’s development.

Religious Places

The Jhiri Temple in Jhiri village honors Baba Jitu, a folk hero symbolizing resistance against oppression. It is the focal point of the annual Jhiri Mela, a festival celebrating his legacy and the village's rich cultural traditions.

Historical Significance

The Jhiri Temple holds deep historical significance as it commemorates the legendary sacrifice of Baba Jitto, a folk hero revered for his resistance to exploitation. Serving as the focal point of the annual Jhiri Mela, this cultural event draws thousands of visitors who come to honor Baba Jitto’s legacy and immerse themselves in local traditions. The temple is a vibrant center for various festivals throughout the year, with local legends and folklore weaving a rich tapestry of cultural heritage around it, linking the site to important historical events and figures that define the community’s identity.

Annual Celebrations and Events

The Jhiri Mela is an annual fair held in Jhiri village near Kalyanpur, honoring the memory of Baba Jitto, a revered symbol of justice and integrity who sacrificed his life protesting the exploitation of farmers. Devotees from across the region gather at Jhiri during this mela to pay homage to Baba Jitto. They engage in sacred rituals, offer prayers, and take a holy dip in the nearby pond, believed to hold purifying properties. The Jhiri Mela is India’s second-largest fair after the Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan, attracting over a million visitors each year. Spanning approximately eight days from late November to early December, the mela occupies a vast area of around 526 kanals surrounding the Jhiri Temple, creating a grand space for one of the nation’s most significant cultural gatherings.

This year 2024* its from 15th November.

Best Time to Visit

Jhiri Mela: The fair is typically held in early to mid-November, depending on the Hindu calendar. It attracts thousands of visitors who come to participate in cultural events, pay homage, and enjoy the festivities.

Jhiri Mela is being held on 15th November 2024.

Economic Activities

The majority of Kalyanpur village’s population depends on agriculture as their primary source of livelihood, with around 70% of residents engaged in farming. Approximately 20% of the population works in various government sectors, while the remaining individuals run small businesses within the village. These businesses also play a vital role in providing employment opportunities for local residents. The village is home to over 120 shops, contributing to its economic activity and fostering a thriving local market.

Public Services

Public services includes various types of services such as Infrastructure, healthcare, education, healthcare, education, financial, etc.

Transport services

How to reach the village:

The roads in Kalyanpur village are well-maintained, ensuring smooth and safe travel for all vehicles. The nearest railway station is located 24 kilometers away, while the closest airport is 22 kilometers from the village. Kalyanpur is well-connected by road, with regular mini-bus services, locally known as Metador, facilitating easy transportation. Public transport is available about 6-7 kilometers from the village, and private transport services operate within the village, providing convenient travel options for residents and visitors alike.

Financial services

The village is served by a single bank, J&K Grameen Bank, which employs six staff members. On average, the bank caters to 800-900 customers each week, providing essential financial services to the local community.

Educational services

The village is home to a total of six schools, comprising three private unaided institutions and three government-aided schools. These include three primary schools, two secondary schools, and one higher secondary school, providing educational opportunities to students at various levels.

The village has several schools catering to different educational levels:

1. Durga Middle School (Private unaided) - Primary level, with 36 students and 5 staff members.

2. Mayur Public School (Private unaided) - Secondary level, with 303 students and 16 staff members.

3. PS Kalyanpur (Government) - Primary level, with 17 students and 2 staff members.

4. Morning Star School (Private unaided) - Secondary level, with 2 students and 5 staff members.

5. HSS Jhiri (Government) - Higher Secondary level, with 448 students and 26 staff members.

6. PS Bazigar Basti (Government) - Primary level, with 19 students and 4 staff members.

These schools serve the educational needs of the village's students at various stages of their academic journey.

Challenges Faced by the Village

The village is well-equipped with essential facilities, and each year, during the Jhiri Mela, the government undertakes extensive renovation efforts to ensure everything is in good condition. However, the Senior Secondary School faces a shortage of teachers, particularly in subjects like Hindi and Physical Education. The school also struggles with a lack of classrooms and furniture, which has forced some students to study in the playground. Additionally, the village faces a deficiency in healthcare services, with only one clinic available within the village, and the nearest dispensary is located in the neighboring village Dabbe.