Sikar, Rajasthan: Preparations for the Khatu ShyamJi Phalgun Mela 2026 at the famous Khatu ShyamJi temple in Sikar district have begun, with the administration and mela committee planning significant changes in crowd management, parking, and security. While there is a proposal to reduce the duration of the mela this year, authorities are focused on improving visitor experience and safety.
Mela Duration May Be Reduced
Traditionally, the Phalgun Mela runs for 12 days, attracting huge crowds. In the first four days, 80,000 to 1.3 lakh devotees visit daily, while the remaining eight days see nearly 20 lakh visitors. Based on these figures, the mela’s duration may be limited to 8 days in 2026, scheduled from 21 February to 28 February, if the proposal is approved. Reducing the duration aims to ease administrative and local challenges.
Challenges for Local Residents and Authorities
The extended mela period requires extensive barricading, causing inconvenience to local residents. Even with lower crowds during off-peak days, permanent barricades disrupt daily life. During the mela, over 60% of the Sikar police force is deployed for security, with additional personnel called from neighboring districts, placing further pressure on the administration.
Five Major Changes for 2026
| No. | Change | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Three Exit Areas | Instead of two, three exit routes will reduce crowd congestion. |
| 2 | 75-Foot Foot Overbridge | A new overbridge will allow pilgrims to cross above the darshan queues safely. |
| 3 | Real-Time CCTV Monitoring | CCTV cameras will be installed on Manda and Rings roads to monitor crowd movement live. |
| 4 | Higher Barricades | The height of barricades along darshan paths will be increased for better control. |
| 5 | New Parking Spots | Additional parking areas will prevent traffic jams during peak hours. |
The administration aims to make the 2026 Phalgun Mela more organized, safe, and convenient for devotees. The final approval for these changes will be decided in the joint meeting of the mela committee and district administration scheduled for Tuesday.
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