Preparations Complete for Traditional Fair at Manika Dham in Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur. Preparations have been finalized for the traditional fair (Jatra) held at Manika Dham (Mudka), a religious and tourist site located in Shuklaphanta Municipality-8. Cleaning of the temple premises, road maintenance, and management works have been completed for the fair scheduled for the 13th and 14th of Falgun.

According to the Baijanath Religious and Tourist Development Committee, preparations have been intensified to make the fair organized and safe. The committee stated that leveling the ground for commercial shops below the temple premises, clearing bushes, and arranging necessary structures have been completed.

A vehicle parking area has been designated for the smooth movement of devotees. "We have set aside the temple premises and the surrounding area for devotees," said Committee Chairman Puran Hamal, adding, "Alcohol is completely prohibited in the fair area."

Chairman Hamal informed that the maintenance work on the road used by devotees' vehicles is underway. He also mentioned that proper arrangements for drinking water have been made. Coordination has been made with the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force, prioritizing peace and security. He noted that security arrangements will be tightened to prevent undesirable activities during the fair.

Committee Treasurer Dammar Bahadur Air stated that a decision has been made to give priority to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and women for darshan at the temple.

Traditionally, the fair is held on the night of the ninth day and during the day on the tenth day of the bright half of Falgun. The local government declares a public holiday on the occasion of the fair. Mudka is considered a significant destination in the district from both religious and tourism perspectives.

Due to the popular belief that worshipping Lord Baijanath at Mudka grants desired fulfillment, thousands of devotees from Nepal and India participate in the fair. This occasion also sees a large gathering of traders.

In the Mudka area, there is an ancient temple of Siddhababa and a pond near the temple. A modern-style Bhajan Ghar (devotional hall) has recently been constructed near the temple premises at a cost exceeding Rs 20 million. Electricity service has been extended to the temple area for the first time.

Local residents say that this area, located about 11 kilometers north of the East-West Highway at the foothills of the Chure range, has been known since ancient times as a shelter for those migrating with livestock from the hilly regions during winter.