Jamshedpur: Former Chief Minister Raghubar Das displayed his devout reverence as he embarked on a symbolic ‘Kalash Yatra’ from Hari Mandir premises in Baridih to Surya Mandir in Sidhgora on Monday, in a poignant ritual known as ‘jal abhishek’ or water offering.

Draped in a saffron Kurta Pajama, Das took an active part in the ‘Kalash Yatra,’ a procession organized by the Surya Mandir Committee to commemorate the third Somvari of the sacred month of Shravan. This ritual drew participation from over 1000 devout followers who collectively embraced the spiritual journey.

Having reached the revered Surya Temple, Raghubar Das proceeded inside, where he offered ‘jal abhishek’ at the Shivalaya, an act of devotion that involves pouring water over the deity’s idol. Following this solemn practice, Das expressed that his prayers were centered around the welfare of the state. His words echoed his heartfelt wishes for prosperity and harmony within the region.

The former Chief Minister concluded the ‘jal abhishek’ ceremony and partook in the Prasad – a divine meal comprising khichdi, puri, and mixed vegetables – which was thoughtfully arranged to serve nearly 20,000 individuals.

As the auspicious month of Shravan envelops the city in an aura of spiritual significance, the atmosphere resonates with religious fervour. The city echoed with the chant of ‘HarHarMahadev,’ and the sound of temple bells reverberated as thousands of devotees congregated to seek blessings from Lord Shiva on the third Monday of Shravan.

Temples across the city have been adorned with resplendent lights and vibrant flowers, setting a picturesque stage for the devout. Since the early hours of the morning, devotees formed long queues, their dedication evident as they offered heartfelt prayers to the deity and sang devotional hymns.

Within the temples’ hallowed walls, devotees lovingly poured milk, curd, honey, ghee, and bael (bilwa) leaves upon the Shivlings, symbolizing their supplications for the well-being and prosperity of their families. Alongside these offerings, devotees tenderly presented prasad (sweets) and flowers to the deity, a gesture that later culminated in their distribution among fellow worshippers.

The spiritual resonance of the city was palpable on this day, with the ‘Kalash Yatra’ not just a ceremonial procession, but a heartfelt expression of faith and communal togetherness.

With the auspicious season of Shravan the city is gripped with religious fervour. The ‘HarHarMahadev’ chant and sounds of bell resonated across the city as thousands of devotees thronged temples to seek blessings of Lord Shiva on the third Monday of the auspicious Shravan month. Temples in the city have been decked up with colourful lights and flowers. The devotees waited in long queues since early morning to offer prayers to the deity and sung bhajans.

Ragubar’s prayer: Baba Bholenath destroy demonic forces

At the culmination of Lord Shiva’s Jal Abhishek at Surya Mandir, Raghubar Das, the Chief Custodian of the Surya Mandir Committee and former Chief Minister, expressed special gratitude to the people of the steel city for their participation in the Kalash Yatra and their devotion in the religious event dedicated to the divine feminine power. He observed that the Jalabhishek Yatra showcased a unique blend of spirituality, devotion and unity.

“This was a historic procession in which thousands of mothers, sisters, men, and youth participated and chanted odes to Baba Bholenath that reverberated along the entire route of the Yatra. The devotional sentiment that was reflected was beyond words. India’s identity as a spiritual and cultural nation has always been hailed for its age-old traditions and heritage,” Raghubar Das averred on the occasion.

The former Chief Minister, Raghubar Das went on to state, “Certain demonic forces are striving to undermine our country’s glorious culture and heritage. I pray to Baba Bholenath to obliterate these negative forces and bless the devotees with His grace.”

He expressed his gratitude to all devotees, including members of the Surya Mandir Committee, BJP workers, and various social organizations, for their collaboration in making the Jalabhishek Yatra historic and wonderful.

Chandragupt Singh, the Custodian of the committee, and President Bhupendra Singh extended their gratitude to all devotees participating in the Jalabhishek Yatra. They mentioned that the devotion of the Yatra participants had transformed the entire region into a hub of spiritual enthusiasm. They expressed appreciation for the direct and indirect contributions made by individuals in service and support during the Jalabhishek Yatra. (w/gsd)