Khatu Shyam Ji Lakhhi Falgun Mela Kicks Off Amid Devotees’ Enthusiasm

Sikar, Rajasthan: The renowned Lakhhi Falgun Mela at Khatu Shyam Ji Temple began today, Saturday, marking the start of eight days of religious fervor. Millions of devotees from Jaipur and other cities are expected to participate in the festival, which runs from February 21 to 28. The roads from Reengas to Khatu are already resonating with devotional songs, colorful flags, and chants of “Jai Shri Shyam.”

Massive Footfall Expected

This year, officials anticipate around 2.8 million devotees to attend the mela, with some estimates suggesting the number could rise to 3.5 million. Pilgrims are required to walk the last 5–8 kilometers to reach the temple, making the journey an act of devotion for children, youth, and the elderly alike.

Special Arrangements for Darshan

To manage the large crowds, zig-zag barricading has been set up at Lakhdatar and Modi Grounds. After covering approximately 75 feet of the route, devotees enter 14 separate queues leading to the temple. Shakti Singh, Chairman of the Shri Shyam Temple Committee Trust, noted that last year around 2.5 million devotees attended, and this year the numbers are expected to be higher. The peak crowd is anticipated between February 24 and 28, with around 1.5 million devotees expected during these four days.

Facilities for Devotees

For the convenience of pilgrims, one crore water pouches, 200 ml bottled water, and 1,000 baskets of kinnu (citrus fruit) along with lemon toffees are being distributed. Parking has been arranged over a 52 bigha area, accommodating up to 25,000 vehicles. Vehicles will be stopped roughly three kilometers from the temple to manage traffic effectively.

Security and Medical Arrangements

The mela’s security and medical facilities are extensive:

• Security: 4,400 police personnel, 1,000 Home Guards, and additional private security staff deployed across 22 sectors.
• Medical: 14 health camps with 80 doctors, 270 nursing staff, and 30 ambulances ready to serve pilgrims.

Officials including IG Raghvendra Suhas (Jaipur Range) and SP Praveen Nayak Nunawat emphasized that these arrangements are designed for smooth crowd management. Additionally, a mobile app, “Shyam Sarathi,” has been launched to provide information and assistance to devotees.

The Khatu Shyam Ji Lakhhi Falgun Mela is set to continue with devotion, enthusiasm, and a steadily increasing number of participants over the coming days.