Bihar’s revered Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur district transforms into a hub of spirituality and festivity during Makar Sankranti. Thousands converge on this ancient pilgrimage site for elaborate pujas and a bustling fair that celebrates the sun’s northward journey.
Dawn breaks with the rhythmic beats of dhols signaling the start of preparations. Priests meticulously arrange offerings of milk, honey, and seasonal grains before the black stone idol of Maa Mundeshwari. The air thickens with sandalwood smoke as special havan rituals invoke divine grace for bountiful crops and family well-being.
The mela grounds buzz with energy from early morning. Vendors hawk sesame laddoos, gur, and khichdi—staples of the festival—while artisans display brass utensils and terracotta figurines. Children thrill to Ferris wheels and game stalls, as elders share stories of bygone eras under banyan trees. Cultural troupes stage energetic performances of Jhijhian and Sohar songs, blending devotion with entertainment.
Steeped in mythology, the temple is said to be the abode where the goddess slayed demons, earning her fierce reputation. Its unique architecture, featuring a turbaned Shiva lingam and tortoise emblem at the base, fascinates historians. The day’s highlight remains the pind daan and bali pratha, observed with reverence by tribal communities preserving age-old customs.
Local administration coordinates with temple trusts for logistics, including medical camps, water stations, and parking zones amid the rugged landscape. The event underscores Bihar’s rich tapestry of festivals, fostering communal harmony. As stars emerge, the grand aarti unites voices in ‘Jai Maa Mundeshwari,’ leaving pilgrims spiritually recharged and ready for the year ahead.