About Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair, also known as the Bhavnath Mahashivratri Mela, is a vibrant religious and cultural festival held annually at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple near Damodar Kund at the foothills of Girnar Mountain in Junagadh, Gujarat. This ancient and mystic fair is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists from across India.
Significance of Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair is celebrated in connection with Maha Shivratri, one of the most sacred festivals in the Hindu calendar. The fair marks the night when Lord Shiva performed his divine cosmic dance and is considered highly auspicious for prayers, fasting, and spiritual rituals. It blends devotion with Gujarat’s rich cultural traditions, bringing together spiritual ceremonies and folk activities in a unique festive atmosphere.
Key Attractions and Activities
The Bhavnath Fair offers a mix of religious practices and cultural experiences:
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Midnight Maha Puja of Lord Shiva at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple.
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Procession of Naga Sadhus — ascetics who march in traditional attire (or minimal attire) with flags, conch shells, tungis, and turis.
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Holy Bath in Mrigi Kund by sadhus and pilgrims during the night of Maha Shivratri.
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Folk music, dance, and cultural performances reflecting local traditions.
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Stalls selling handicrafts, rosaries, idols, sweets, and local delicacies, adding to the festive spirit.
Time to Celebrate Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair takes place every year in the Hindu month of Magha, usually in February or March, coinciding with Maha Shivratri. The celebration spans about five days, culminating in the grand puja on the night of Mahashivratri.
Major Highlights of the Festival
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Naga Sadhus and Ascetic Processions — the most captivating and iconic feature of the fair with chants, music, and ritual displays.
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Midnight Puja and Sacred Bath — devotees and sadhus take a purifying dip in Mrigi Kund during the auspicious hours.
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Traditional Folk Arts and Performances that showcase Gujarat’s cultural heritage.
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Free Meals for Pilgrims organised at various spots around the fairground.
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Colourful Market Stalls with local crafts, jewelry, and delicacies.
Interesting Facts About Bhavnath Fair
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Bhavnath Fair is considered one of the largest Mahashivratri celebrations in Gujarat, attracting lakhs of devotees each year.
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The fair’s procession of Naga Sadhus is often compared to the spiritual grandeur of the Kumbh Mela due to its scale and rituals.
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Devotees believe that Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on the night of Mahashivratri, adding deep spiritual significance to the event.
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Pilgrims often perform a parikrama (circumambulation) of the sacred Girnar hills before attending the fair.
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Temporary stalls set up for the fair offer traditional Gujarati foods, handicrafts, and religious items, giving visitors a full cultural experience.
How to Reach Bhavnath Fair
By Air:
The nearest airport to Junagadh is Rajkot Airport, approximately 110 km away. From there, visitors can take taxis or buses to reach the fair location.
By Train:
Junagadh Junction is a well-connected railway station with trains from major cities in Gujarat and neighbouring states.
By Road:
Junagadh has good road connectivity via national highways, and regular state buses and private coaches operate from major cities such as Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Vadodara.
Why You Should Visit Bhavnath Fair
Bhavnath Fair is not just a religious gathering — it is a cultural spectacle, spiritual journey, and folk celebration combined. It offers devotees and tourists alike the chance to witness ancient traditions, participate in devotional rituals, experience local music and dance, explore markets, and immerse themselves in the deep spiritual ambiance of Maha Shivratri at Girnar.
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