As India prepares to celebrate Basant Panchami on January 23, honoring Goddess Saraswati, the sacred Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar, Jharkhand, unfolds a mesmerizing tradition. While devotees nationwide chant praises to the goddess of knowledge, this Jyotirlinga site kicks off its own festive fervor with the Tilakotsav, the ceremonial precursor to Lord Shiva’s divine wedding.
The Baidyanath Temple, one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas, draws millions annually, especially during Shravan and Mahashivratri. But Basant Panchami marks the start of a heartfelt ritual where women devotees, embodying Mata Parvati’s kin from Mithilanchal, arrive in droves bearing sweets, flowers, and garlands. They invite Baba Baidyanath—believed to be the wish-fulfilling Shiva lingam—to a grand wedding procession, a custom extending until Shivratri.
The ceremony begins with elaborate worship. Priests adorn the deity with bel leaves and vibrant blooms. Offerings of sesame seeds, laddoos, ghee, and red gulal are presented in the sanctum sanctorum, where women gather to apply the sacred tilak. This age-old practice, tracing back to the Treta Yuga, was once performed by saints and sages. Today, common folk joyfully take on the role of ’tilakharus,’ perpetuating the devotion.
Mythology enriches the site’s allure. Legends say this is where Sati’s heart fell, making it a poignant union spot for Shiva and Parvati. Devotees flock here seeking blessings for their heart’s desires. As vibrant processions and chants fill the air, the Tilakotsav not only revives ancient rites but also unites communities in shared spirituality, promising a season of divine celebrations ahead.