Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
The town of Paithan, known as ‘Dakshin Kashi’, resonated with chants of “Bhanudas-Eknath” and “Dnyanoba-Tukaram” on Monday as the Nath Shashthi festival of Sant Eknath Maharaj began amid the presence of lakhs of Warkaris from across the state.
The main ceremony commenced in the morning at the Sant Eknath Maharaj temple, where Nath Sansthan president MLA Vilas Bhumre and district collector Deelip Swami performed the traditional Mahapuja with their spouses. Executive trustee Dada Bare, municipal council president Vidya Bhushan Kawsankar, chief officer Dr Pallavi Ambhore, sub-divisional police officer Sunil Patil and police inspector Mahadev Gomare were present.
An estimated five lakh devotees visited the Nath Samadhi on the first day itself, with long queues seen at both temples. Bhajans, Kirtans, Pravachans and Bharuds were organised at various places, while several Dindis circumambulated the temples and offered prayers.
The three-day festival will conclude on March 11 on Kalashtami with the traditional ‘Kala Dahi Handi’ ritual at sunset. After receiving the sacred prasad, devotees will return to their hometowns.
Civic authorities, police and the revenue department have made arrangements for drinking water, health services and security for the devotees.
VIP darshan facility introduced
For the first time, Nath Sansthan has introduced a VIP darshan facility this year. Devotees can have direct darshan of the Nath Samadhi through a Rs 250 pass. The facility will be available only during the three-day Nath Shashthi festival.
Photo caption:
MLA Vilas Bhumre and district collector Deelip Swami performed the Mahapuja at the Sant Eknath Maharaj temple as the Nath Shashthi festival commenced in Paithan on Monday morning.