Jhumka 'mila' re, Bareilly ke bazaar mein! This project will make Bollywood song a reality!

Jhumaka gira re Bareilly ke bazaar mein – These words automatically transport you the jiving 60s. Sadhana’s iconic dance number from 1966 blockbuster ‘Mera Saya’ is etched in memory of every Hindi film lover. The beautiful music by Madan Mohan with rustic charm of Raja Mehdi Ali Khan’s lyrics instantly put spotlight on Bareilly, a simple town in western Uttar Pradesh. Now, exactly 53 years after the stunning hit dance number, the ‘jhumka’ is coming home! Yes, you read it right!

According to latest media reports, the Bareilly Development Authority has sought approval of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to install a giant ‘jhumka’ at the Parsakhera zero point.

Originally conceived in early 90s, the project hit a wall due to fund crunch and lack of good location. An IANS report quoted BDA secretary AK Singh saying that, “The ambitious ‘jhumka’ project was in the limbo for a long. However, the project has now been worked upon and a new location near Parsakhera, at the entrance of the city. We have sought the NHAI’s approval. We hope to get it soon, and as soon as it happens, the work will commence.”

“Although we have selected the Parsakhera zero point for the project, there could be some changes in the previous design and the area depending on the area available. We may constrict or expand the project,” Singh added.

Apart from giant ‘jhumka’, the project will also install two ‘surme daanis’. The jhumka and the surme daani will be decorated with intricate zari work and spectacular stones. The proposal, confirmed by the BDA officials, will see construction of  jhumka with 2.43 metre diameter. With 12-14 feet height, the giant jhumka will be located at Parsakhera zero point, which is the entry point in the city on Delhi-Bareilly road.