Chamba: In a heartfelt continuation of a centuries-old tradition, Bairewali Bhagwati, the revered deity of Devi Kothi in Churah, has begun her annual journey to Chamba to visit her sister, Goddess Chamunda. The symbolic pilgrimage takes place on the occasion of Vaishakh Sankranti, as per local customs.
Accompanied by her kardars (caretakers and devotees), Bairewali Bhagwati will cover the 100-km route on foot, travelling through villages and valleys, receiving prayers and offerings from devotees along the way.
The goddess will remain in Chamba for 12 days, staying with her sister Chamunda and receiving worship from followers during her stay.
Journey of faith and tradition
The journey, deeply embedded in local beliefs and spiritual sentiments, is marked by traditional music, the sounds of dhol-nagare and shehnai as the deity departs from her temple in Devi Kothi.
The sacred visit is believed to strengthen the bond between the divine sisters, drawing hundreds of devotees who seek blessings and invite the goddess into their homes.
The Chamunda Mata Temple has been beautifully adorned with floral garlands and glowing lights to welcome Bairewali Bhagwati.
Members of the Chamunda Seva Samiti had extended a formal invitation to the goddess at Devi Kothi, a custom observed every year before the journey begins.
Sacred timing and celebrations
Bairewali Bhagwati is expected to arrive in Chamba town at 6 pm on April 17. The spiritual gathering will culminate with a grand Jatar Mela (traditional fair) held in the Chamunda Mata Temple complex.
On the final day of the two sisters’ divine reunion, the ‘gur’ (oracles) will perform sacred rituals and make spiritual proclamations.
Following the celebration, the goddess will return to her native temple in Devi Kothi, marking the completion of this year’s ritual journey.
Rain, wind and divine presence
The local lore holds that the arrival of Bairewali Bhagwati brings rain and strong winds, a sign of her sister Chamunda’s joy and the presence of Lord Indra himself witnessing the reunion.
Chief priest of the Bairewali Mata Temple, Hari Singh Sharma, said the departure from Devi Kothi was an emotional and vibrant moment, filled with traditional music and deep devotion.
Subhash Mahajan
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