Patna, May 17 (IANS) The sacred town of Rajgir has once again transformed into a vibrant centre of devotion as the world-renowned Malmas (Purushottam) Fair commenced with grand rituals and spiritual enthusiasm on Sunday.

The fair was formally inaugurated by Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who hoisted the ceremonial flag and performed rituals in accordance with Vedic traditions at the revered Brahmakund complex.

The atmosphere resonated with Vedic chants, conch shell sounds, and chants of “Har Har Mahadev”, creating a deeply spiritual ambiance.

The Malmas period, also known as Adhimas, holds immense significance in the Sanatan tradition.

It is believed that during this time, 33 koti deities reside in Rajgir, turning the region into a divine spiritual hub.

Driven by this faith, millions of devotees from across India and abroad visit Rajgir to take holy dips in the Brahmakund and other sacred hot springs, seeking spiritual merit and purification.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described the Rajgir Malmas Fair as not just “Bihar’s spiritual identity, but a symbol of India’s cultural and religious heritage”.

To manage the anticipated surge in pilgrims, the Bihar administration has made extensive arrangements, including 14 temporary shelter camps, medical aid posts and emergency services, drinking water and sanitation facilities, affordable food centres, and a zig-zag barricading system for crowd management.

Officials expect an even larger turnout this year, surpassing the 21.9 million devotees who attended the previous fair.

A major highlight of the fair is the four Shahi Snans (royal baths), where saints and seers from various Akhadas and Maths participate in ceremonial bathing rituals.

The nearby Vaitarani River holds deep religious significance, with devotees performing Pind-daan and Tarpan rituals.

According to belief, these rites help in attaining ‘moksha’ (liberation) for ancestors.

With devotional chants echoing across the hills and temples of Rajgir, the fair represents a living embodiment of India’s spiritual traditions.

The entire region is currently immersed in faith, culture, and religious fervor, attracting pilgrims, saints, and tourists alike.

The Malmas Fair continues to stand as one of the most significant spiritual congregations in eastern India, blending devotion, tradition, and large-scale public participation.

–IANS

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