January 23 brings Basant Panchami across India, a day steeped in reverence for learning and arts through Saraswati worship. Yet, at Jharkhand’s iconic Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, the focus shifts to a joyful bridal ritual for Lord Shiva. The Tilakotsav ceremony launches preparations for Baba’s symbolic marriage, captivating thousands with its blend of faith and festivity.
Renowned as a Jyotirlinga and ‘Manokamna Shivling,’ Baidyanath Temple pulses with energy during key festivals. On this Magha Shukla Panchami, women from Mithila region—self-proclaimed allies of Parvati—flood the premises with platters of prasad, floral tributes, and enthusiasm. The tradition, alive since Treta Yuga, sees them formally inviting Shiva to his wedding baraat, a practice sustained till Shivratri.
Rituals commence post-puja: the lingam is beautified with fresh flowers and bel patr. Inside the garbhagriha, ladies offer til-based sweets, ghee-laden delicacies, rice stalks, and auspicious gulal before bestowing the tilak. What began with ascetics now embraces everyday devotees, all donning the tilakharu mantle to honor the lord.
Pauranic tales link the temple to Sati’s heart fragment, cementing its status as Shiva-Parvati’s sacred rendezvous. Pilgrims from afar converge here, their prayers echoing through the halls. This Basant Panchami, as colors and aromas envelop Deoghar, the Tilakotsav stands as a testament to enduring bhakti, bridging eras and inviting global devotees to witness this unparalleled heritage.