Munge Bhagwati Devi Annual Yatra (Fair)
The annual yatra is the most significant festival of the Goddess. It begins on Paush Purnima and continues for five days. During this period, devotees are allowed to enter the sanctum for darshan, whereas on regular days only the priest may enter.
The yatra draws devotees from distant villages who come for darshan, to make or fulfill vows, and to offer oti. The area witnesses a massive influx of devotees during this time.
The yatra includes:
-
Ritual worship and offerings
-
Darshan and fulfillment of vows
-
Evening gondhal singing, devotional music, discourses, and recitations from sacred texts
-
Aarti, palanquin processions, and kirtans
The final night concludes with the grand “Lalita” performance. Large numbers of devotees, especially married women visiting their maternal homes and devotees from Mumbai, attend to seek the Goddess’s blessings. The village resonates with joy, and the temple complex is beautifully illuminated. The Dalpa Savari procession of the Goddess is also an unforgettable and cherished experience.
Accommodation for visiting devotees is provided in the nearby Bhaktanivas.