Purnagiri Mela sounds like the beats of drums and chants of “Jai Mata Di” coming from a distance. This fair is not just about visiting the temple and worshiping, but it is also about the friendship formed with the travelers while climbing the difficult climbs of the mountains. The stories of people you hear while sipping tea in the evening, and the blessings of the Mother Goddess you receive in the temple premises – these are experiences that you will remember for years.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Purnagiri Mela
- 1 Overview of Purnagiri Mela
- 2 Historical Significance
- 3 Cultural Importance
Light of Purnagiri Mela (Introduction to Purnagiri Mela)
Have you ever seen the arrangement of a fair in the lap of mountains? Flood of faith of devotees coming from far and wide? If not, then definitely experience the Purnagiri fair held in Champawat district of Uttarakhand. This fair is not only a center of faith but also a confluence of the beauty of the mountains and folk culture.
1 Overview of Purnagiri Mela
Purnagiri fair is held every year during Chaitra Navratri, which generally falls in the months of March and April. This fair lasts for two months. Devotees come from far and wide to participate in it. The fair is organized at Maa Purnagiri temple, which is situated on the peak of Annapurna. It is believed that the navel of Sati and Sawant Prajapati had fallen here.
This fair is not limited to religious rituals only. The colorful presentations of folk artists, the aroma of traditional dishes, and the splendor of the shops mesmerize everyone attending the fair.
2 Historical Significance
Purnagiri fair also has historical importance. Maa Purnagiri temple is considered one of the 52 Shaktipeeths. According to beliefs, body parts of Mata Sati had fallen at different places, and Purnagiri temple was established where the navel had fallen. This temple has been the center of faith of devotees for centuries and the fair is a celebration of this faith.
3 Cultural Importance
Purnagiri fair is not only a symbol of religion but also shows a glimpse of the culture of Uttarakhand. The performances of folk artists in the fair, people dressed in traditional costumes, and the aroma of local cuisine are proof of the vibrancy of the culture of the state. The echo of bhajan-kirtan performed in the fair echoes in the mountains and fills the atmosphere with devotion.
If you are ever planning to visit Uttarakhand, then definitely take the opportunity to attend the Purnagiri fair. This fair will give you an unforgettable experience of faith, nature, and culture.
Geographical Context
- 1 Location of Purnagiri Temple
- 2 Surrounding Landscape
- 3 Accessibility
Geographical Context of Purnagiri Temple
There would hardly be any place in the whole world where nature has created such a beautiful confluence of faith. There is something different about Purnagiri temple. Let us see how special this temple is geographically:
- Location
Purnagiri Temple is located in Champawat district of Uttarakhand. This temple is situated on the hills of Annapurna Devi. This temple is visible from a distance from the surrounding villages, as if the blessings of the Mother are resting on the chest of the mountains.
The nearest city to reach here is Tanakpur. The road from Tanakpur to Champawat passes through the mountains, which is a sight in itself.
- Surrounding Landscape
Purnagiri temple is surrounded by beautiful mountains on all sides. The lush green forests spread far and wide, the clear rivers flowing through them, and the clear blue sky – this sight mesmerizes anyone.
If you go during the fair, you will also get to see flourishing crops in the surrounding fields. The fresh air of the mountains and the fragrance of flowers makes the entire atmosphere fragrant.
Sometimes clouds form in the morning, which gives a mysterious look to the temple. As if Mother Sati herself was sitting among the clouds.
- Accessibility
It is definitely a bit difficult to reach Purnagiri temple, but this difficulty is what makes this journey special. As mentioned, first you have to reach Tanakpur. From there, taxis or jeeps are available, which will take you to Champawat.
The journey beyond Champawat is on foot. You can reach the temple through the footpath built on the mountains. This path is definitely a bit difficult, but the view seen after reaching the top takes away all the fatigue.
Some people also take the help of a stickman or porter. If you are going for the first time, then this option may be better for you.
So if you are willing to put in a little hard work, then experience the journey of faith amidst the beauty of nature.
Religious Beliefs and Legends
- 1 Mythological Background
- 2 Purnagiri Temple: Devi Shakti and Purnagiri Devi
Religious Beliefs and Legends of Purnagiri Mela
Purnagiri Fair is not just a festival of colours, customs and food. Its real life is the religious beliefs and folk tales that have been prevalent for centuries. Let us know these stories:
- Mythological Background
The most important belief associated with Purnagiri fair is related to Mata Sati. According to mythology, Daksh Prajapati performed a yagya in which he did not invite his son-in-law Lord Shiva. Sati could not bear the insult of her husband and took samadhi in the fire of the yagya. Angered by anger, Lord Shiva started carrying out an orgy with the mortal remains of Sati. Due to which the balance of the universe started deteriorating.
Then Lord Vishnu divided Sati’s body into 52 pieces with his Chakra. It is believed that wherever these body parts fell, they became Shaktipeeths. Purnagiri Temple is one of those 52 Shaktipeeths. It is said that the navel of Mother Sati had fallen here.
Therefore Purnagiri fair is considered a festival of worship of Mother Sati and Shakti. Every year during Navratri, a fair is organized on the basis of this belief. asics=”margin:0px; padding:0px;”>
- Purnagiri Temple: Devi Shakti and Purnagiri Devi
Purnagiri temple is considered a symbol of Goddess Shakti. It is believed that by coming here and worshiping the Mother Goddess, every wish is fulfilled. Besides, nine forms of Maa Durga are also worshiped during Navratri.
Here is another interesting thing. Along with Mother Sati, Purnagiri Devi is also worshiped in the Purnagiri temple. According to folk beliefs, Purnagiri is the daughter of Goddess Sati. It was he who first installed the idol of Mata Sati.
Both these goddesses are forms of Shakti. Mother Purnagiri is considered a symbol of happiness and prosperity. The worship of these two goddesses has special significance in the Purnagiri fair. Devotees come from far and wide to have darshan of Mother Purnagiri and Mother Sati.
Preparations and Festivities
- 1 Rituals and Customs
- 2 Decorations and Infrastructure
- 3 Commemorative Events
Preparations and Festivities of Purnagiri Mela
Purnagiri fair is not only a symbol of religious faith, but it is a month-long festival. It is a special experience for everyone who participates in it. Let us see the preparations and pomp of the fair:
- Confluence of Rituals and Customs
Many types of rituals and customs can be seen in Purnagiri fair. Every morning there is a special adornment of the Mother Goddess in the temple. Amidst the echo of drums, devotees shout and the temple bells ring.
Bhajans and kirtans are organized in the temple premises throughout the month. As the evening approaches, the entire temple complex illuminates with the twinkling of lamps. Devotees perform puja and offer coconut to the Mother Goddess to fulfill their wishes.
During the fair, the fair is organized even more grand on certain days. On these days, special pujas are performed and Bhandaras are organised, where free food is given to the devotees.
- Decorations and Infrastructure
Preparations for the fair start months in advance. The temple premises are decorated with colorful flowers and flags. People from nearby villages also come and set up shops. You will easily find puja items, food items and toys in these shops.
The administration also makes full preparations to handle such a crowd during the fair. Roads are repaired and security arrangements are also tightened. Medical facilities are also easily available.
- Commemorative Events
Not only religious rituals take place in the Purnagiri fair, but many types of cultural programs are also organised. Colorful presentations by folk artists add charm to the fair.
You can enjoy Chhokra dance, Bhavai drama, and folk songs here. Some competitions are also organized in the fair, such as tug of war and long jump. These competitions create an atmosphere of excitement in the fair.
Purnagiri fair is not just a festival of religion, but it is a confluence of nature, culture and tradition. If you are ever planning to visit Uttarakhand, then definitely take the opportunity to attend the Purnagiri fair. You will remember this experience throughout your life.
Pilgrimage Experience
- 1 Journey to Purnagiri
- 2 Spiritual Practices and Offerings
- 3 Visitor Experiences and Testimonials
Pilgrimage Experience of Purnagiri Mela
Purnagiri Fair is not just a fair, but a journey of faith. Devotees from far and wide travel on foot, climb difficult climbs, just with the thought of having the darshan of Maa Purnagiri. Let us see how the experience of traveling to Purnagiri is:
- Journey to Purnagiri
The journey to Purnagiri is special in itself. As mentioned, some hard work is required to reach the temple. The road from Tanakpur to Champawat is fine, but the real test is the climb beyond Champawat.
One has to go through the footpath built on the mountains. You will find many villages on the way, where you can take some rest and talk to the local people. On the way you will get to see amazing views of nature. Tall trees, colorful flowers, and green fields spread far and wide – this sight fills you with energy.
The climb is definitely a bit difficult, but the fatigue is relieved by the bhajans and loud chants of “Jai Mata Di” by the other devotees walking along. You will also find many tea shops on the way, where you can relieve fatigue by drinking tea.
When you finally reach the temple, even fatigue is happily forgotten. The view of the mountains spread all around from the top fascinates the mind. It seems as if Mother Sati herself is calling you.
- Spiritual Practices and Offerings
The first thing that happens after reaching Purnagiri temple is darshan. Before entering the sanctum sanctorum, definitely ring the bell located outside the temple. It is believed that this informs the mother about your arrival.
The atmosphere inside the sanctum sanctorum is very calm and sacred. After having darshan of Mata, you can offer coconut, chunri and sweets to her. After the puja, Bhandara langar is also run in the temple premises itself, where you can take prasad.
Yagya and Havan are also organized throughout the month during the fair. You can join these programs and chant mantras. Attending the Aarti in the evening is also an unforgettable experience.
- Visitor Experiences and Testimonials
Every devotee coming to Purnagiri fair has his own different experience. Some come here with wishes, while others come just to seek the blessings of the Mother Goddess.
Mrs. Sharda Bawong, who attended the fair last year, says, “It was the most wonderful experience of my life. Even the difficulty of reaching the temple did not seem special. After having the darshan of Maa, I felt immense peace.”
Shri Ashok ji, who comes to the fair every year, says, “I have been coming to this fair continuously for the last 10 years. The environment here, the beauty of nature, and the confluence of faith attracts me every time.”
Purnagiri Fair is not only a pilgrimage but also a medium to connect with nature and culture.
Conclusion
- 1 Recap of Purnagiri Mela
- 2 Reflections on its Significance
- 3 Looking Ahead: Sustaining Tradition in a Changing World
Conclusion: Purnagiri Mela – A confluence of Faith, Nature, and Tradition
Now you have heard the story of Purnagiri fair. This fair is not only a center of religious faith, but it is also a confluence of the beauty of the mountains and folk culture. Let’s see what this experience is all about:
- Recap of Purnagiri Mela
Purnagiri fair is organized every year during Chaitra Navratri. This two-month long fair attracts devotees from far and wide. This fair is not only a religious gathering, but it is also a festival celebrated in the lap of nature.
To participate in the fair, devotees climb uphill to reach the temple. The mind gets peace after seeing the Mother Goddess in the temple. The cultural programs, bhajan-kirtan and langar of Bhandara held during the fair make the entire atmosphere lively.
- Reflections on its Significance
The importance of Purnagiri fair is not limited only to religious faith. This fair connects us to our roots and teaches us to keep traditions alive. By coming to the fair we get closer to nature and enjoy its beauty.
Besides, this fair also gives us the message of mutual brotherhood. People of every caste and every religion come together in the fair to seek the blessings of the Mother Goddess. This is a beautiful example of unity.
- Looking Ahead: Sustaining Tradition in a Changing World
In today’s busy life, we hardly have time left for ourselves, for nature and for traditions. Purnagiri fair teaches us that sometimes it is important to stop and strengthen our faith by sitting in the lap of nature.
We also have to keep in mind that the traditions of the fair should also be maintained with the changing times. Concrete steps should be taken to reduce the pollution in the fair and to maintain the environment.
Purnagiri Fair is not just a fair, but it is a heritage of our culture. It is important that we all come together to preserve it for the coming generations.
So if you are ever planning to visit Uttarakhand, then definitely take the opportunity to attend the Purnagiri fair. This experience will give you a unique opportunity to connect with faith, nature, and tradition.