Ganga Dussehra fair begins at Behdababa temple, thousands of Nepali and Indian devotees gather

Dhangadhi: The Ganga Dussehra fair has begun at Behdababa Temple, a major center of faith for both Nepali and Indian devotees. The religious fair, held annually on the Dashami tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Jestha, formally began at 12 midnight on Tuesday. There is a long-standing tradition of offering water to the Shivalinga at midnight along with special worship.

Thousands of devotees from various districts of Nepal and India have gathered to visit Behdababa Temple, located in the forest area of Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City-16. Indian devotees have strong faith in Behdababa, believing that sincere prayers and visits fulfill wishes and bring happiness, peace, prosperity, and children.

Sohanlal Sahu from Bhira in Lakhimpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, expressed his belief that worshipping at Behdababa fulfills wishes. He said there is a popular belief that childless couples are blessed with children after visiting the temple, and added that he has been visiting annually for several years during Ganga Dussehra.

Despite the intense heat of Jestha, Indian devotees are often seen walking from the Gaurifanta checkpoint to Behdababa Temple, covering a distance of about 12 kilometers while carrying belongings and children.

The temple management committee has stated that a dharamshala has been arranged for Indian devotees within the temple premises. Committee chairperson Khem Bahadur Chand said the Ganga Dussehra fair will be held from Jestha 12 to 15. He urged the administration to ensure smooth movement for pilgrims arriving from India, stating that increasing restrictions at checkpoints have made it necessary to facilitate easier access for devotees.

Devotees from various parts of India, including Lakhimpur, Paliya, Chandanchauki, Tikuniya, Belraya, Bhira, and Sahjanpur, as well as devotees from different districts of Nepal, visit the Behdababa Temple for worship.