Junagadh is gearing up to host a well-organized Mahashivratri fair this year, with the Gujarat government implementing measures to enhance facilities and accessibility for devotees. The five-day event at Bhavnath, situated at the foothills of Girnar, will take place from February 11 to 15. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi led a high-level meeting to review the preparations, which involved sadhus, sants, and senior district officials.
Sanghavi emphasized that this year’s fair, often likened to a “mini Kumbh,” will be conducted on a larger scale to ensure a smoother experience and improved amenities for the expected lakhs of pilgrims. Notably, a grand city procession welcoming sadhus and sants will be a highlight, scheduled for the evening of February 11. The route for the traditional Ravedi of the Naga sadhus has been extended from 1.5 km to 2 km to accommodate more devotees and reduce congestion.
Security measures have been significantly bolstered, with the deployment of police personnel increased from 1,600 to over 2,900. The entire fair area will be under continuous CCTV surveillance to ensure safety and prevent any untoward incidents. The Tourism Department will adorn the route with Lord Bholenath-themed decorations, and Junagadh city will be illuminated during the fair.
Various additional arrangements include selfie points, information centers, live-streaming of rituals for remote devotees, parking facilities, designated access routes, accommodation options, clean water, and hygienic toilets along the fair route. For the first time, more than 1,000 local youths will serve as volunteers, and over 300 social organizations will offer accommodation and prasad to pilgrims. A devotional song dedicated to the Mahashivratri fair was also launched during the meeting.
