Kajri Teej Fills Balrampur with Devotion; Chants of Mahadev Echo in Shiva Temples

बलरामपुर उत्तर प्रदेश | अनिरुद्ध शुक्ल

Devotion Marks Kajri Teej in Balrampur

The festival of Kajri Teej was celebrated in Balrampur district with a unique confluence of faith and devotion. As the first rays of dawn broke on Monday, long queues of devotees began to form at the district's prominent Shiva temples. The entire atmosphere was steeped in Shiva devotion with chants of 'Har-Har Mahadev' and 'Bol Bam' filling the air.

On this auspicious occasion, married women observed a fast without water, performing rituals and offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, praying for the prosperity of their families and the long life of their husbands. Kajri Teej, also known as Kajli Teej, is observed on the third day of the waning moon in the month of Shravan and holds special significance for women.

A continuous stream of Kanwariyas was seen at the Sisai Ghat of the Rapti River from early morning. Carrying urns filled with holy water, they proceeded towards the Kalpeshwar Nath Mahadev Temple located in the Rajapur Bhariya forest. Throughout their journey, the chants of 'Bol Bam' by the Kanwariyas reverberated along the route.

Upon reaching the temple, the Kanwariyas reverently performed Jalabhishek (ritual pouring of water) to Kalpeshwar Nath. Devotees continued to arrive at the temple premises until late in the evening. Similarly, a large crowd of devotees was witnessed at the Jharkhandi Temple in the town, the Shiva temple at Rani Talab, and the Shiva temple at the Ganna Office.

The Jharkhandi and Kalpeshwar Nath temples had a fair-like atmosphere, with people frequenting shops selling puja materials and prasad. Special decorations in these temples further enhanced the festive mood.

Kalpeshwar Nath Temple Becomes a Focal Point

The Kalpeshwar Nath Temple, situated on the Utraula road, was a special attraction for devotees on the occasion of Kajri Teej. Local MLA Paltoo Ram himself visited and performed Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva, which further boosted the enthusiasm of the devotees. The MLA also participated in the Bhandara (community feast) organized at the temple premises and felicitated the committee members for their service activities.

On this meritorious occasion, prominent local dignitaries including BJP leader Ananya Gaurav Mishra, corporators Anand Gupta, Manoj Chaurasia, Pradhan Mahesh Mishra, and Lallu Chaurasia, along with many other local dignitaries and devotees, made invaluable contributions to serving the pilgrims. The presence of these dignitaries signified the coordination between the local administration and the public.

Various volunteer organizations also came forward to serve the devotees, providing refreshments and other essential facilities.

Efforts to Facilitate Kanwar Yatra

With the aim of ensuring the Kanwar Yatra was smooth and undisturbed, the Municipal Administration made special arrangements from Sisai Ghat to the Rajapur Bhariya forest. Special attention was given to cleanliness along the route, lime was sprinkled, and adequate lighting arrangements were ensured.

Water tankers and cool drinking water were arranged to quench the thirst of the Kanwariyas. Health camps were also set up to ensure that no Kanwariya faced any inconvenience during the journey. Several volunteers walked alongside the Kanwariyas during the journey, boosting their morale and providing support.

The traffic police also made special arrangements to control vehicular movement on the roads, ensuring that Kanwariyas could reach their destinations safely. The presence of traffic police helped in managing the flow of vehicles and ensuring the safety of pilgrims.

Crowd Management and Security at Temples

To manage the crowds at the temples, separate queues were arranged for men and women, facilitating smooth darshan. This reduced the possibility of disorder and allowed devotees to perform their prayers peacefully. From a security perspective, the police administration remained fully alert.

Additional police force was deployed at prominent Shiva temples, Kanwar Yatra routes, and other public places. The objective was to ensure that devotees could peacefully complete their prayers and Kanwar Yatra. The police presence instilled a sense of security among the devotees.

Police assistance booths were also established at various intersections, where rapid response teams were ready to handle any emergency situation. The Kajri Teej festival in the district concluded successfully in an atmosphere of peace and enthusiasm, reflecting the deep faith and devotion among the local populace. This festival not only holds religious significance but also strengthens social unity and community spirit.