In the heart of Bihar’s Kaimur district, the ancient Mundeshwari Temple comes alive every Makar Sankranti with a spectacle of devotion and celebration. This sacred site, believed to be over 2,000 years old, draws lakhs of pilgrims for its unique rituals and the vibrant fair that unfolds across the temple premises.
The festivities kick off at dawn with priests chanting ancient mantras as they prepare for the special puja dedicated to Goddess Mundeshwari, the presiding deity. Adorned with vibrant flowers, incense, and lamps, the temple’s octagonal sanctum sanctorum resonates with the sounds of conch shells and bells. Devotees offer prayers for prosperity, health, and protection from evil forces, making it one of the most auspicious days of the year.
What sets this event apart is the massive fair, or mela, that springs up around the temple. Stalls line the pathways selling everything from traditional sweets like tilkut and laddoos to colorful tilaks, sacred threads, and handmade pottery. Folk artists perform Bidesiya dances and local music, captivating crowds of all ages. Families from neighboring villages flock here, turning the occasion into a grand reunion filled with laughter and feasting on sesame-based delicacies symbolic of the harvest season.
The temple’s historical significance adds layers to the celebrations. Dating back to the Gupta period, it houses a rare idol of the goddess flanked by Lord Shiva, worshipped in a Shakti tradition. Archaeologists hail it as one of India’s oldest functional Hindu temples. As the sun climbs higher, ritual animal sacrifices—a practice rooted in Tantric traditions—draw intense participation, though modern interpretations emphasize symbolic offerings.
Authorities deploy extensive security and facilities to manage the massive turnout, ensuring smooth darshan and traffic flow on the hilly terrain. Environmental measures promote cleanliness amid the revelry. As dusk falls, the aarti ceremony illuminates the night sky with thousands of diyas, culminating in blessings that echo the timeless spirit of Makar Sankranti. This annual event not only preserves cultural heritage but also boosts the local economy through tourism.