World famous Shravani Mela inaugurated in Deoghar

State Agriculture Minister Badal Patralekh kick-started the Shravani Mela with traditional rituals and prayers and ensured a smooth and memorable experience for the devotees. With the extended duration and the unique alignment of eight Mondays during the Shravani fair after nearly two decades, the significance of this year’s event is heightened.

Significance of Shravani Mela

Shravani Mela is one of the largest religious congregations in the eastern region of India. This month-long fair holds immense religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is an annual pilgrimage that attracts millions of Kanwariyas, who undertake a sacred journey to fetch holy water from the Ganges River and offer it to Lord Shiva at the Baba Baidyanath Temple. The mela takes place during the holy month of Shravan, and this year its timespan is extended from July 3rd to September 7th.

The Pilgrimage of Kanwariyas

The journey to Deoghar begins with the Kanwariyas, devotees who embark on a 105-kilometer pilgrimage on foot after taking a holy dip in the Ganga at Bihar’s Sultanganj. Carrying water from the river, they traverse through challenging terrains to reach the Baba Baidyanath Dham temple. Upon arrival, the pilgrims pour the sacred water on the ‘shivalingam’ as they chant ‘Bol Bam,’ signifying their devotion and dedication.

The Baba Baidyanathdham Temple

The Baba Baidyanathdham Temple, located in Deoghar, holds immense significance for devotees. It is recognized as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are the most revered and sacred Shiva temples in the country. The temple attracts pilgrims from far and wide, who seek blessings and spiritual solace.

Coordination Between Jharkhand and Bihar

Shravani Mela is a collaborative effort between the states of Jharkhand and Bihar. Both governments work in tandem to ensure the success of this grand event. The Deoghar administration, in particular, has taken comprehensive measures ranging from crowd management to lodging facilities for the devotees. This joint effort aims to provide a seamless experience for the pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey.

Facilities and Amenities

To accommodate the vast number of attendees, the Deoghar administration has made significant arrangements. Facilities such as drinking water, toilets, electricity, and cleanliness have been prioritized to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims. In addition, the establishment of 27 police outposts enhances crowd management and maintains a secure environment within the fair premises.