Thousands throng Gupta Kashi temple on final Sawan Monday seeking blessings

Thousands of devotees from Shravasti district and beyond thronged the historic Baba Vibhutinath Mahadev temple in Sirsia on the fourth and final Monday of Sawan, transforming the ancient shrine into a sea of faith and devotion. Known to pilgrims as Gupta Kashi, the temple witnessed an overwhelming rush of worshippers who began arriving as early as 3 am to perform jalabhishek, chanting "Har-Har Mahadev" and "Bol Bam" as they queued for hours to offer sacred water to the deity and pray for prosperity and well-being.

The Baba Vibhutinath temple holds deep mythological significance, with legends tracing its origins to the Mahabharata era. According to popular belief, the Pandavas spent time in the dense forests of Sohelwa during their 12-year exile and one-year incognito period. It is said that Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, established a village here originally called Bhimgaon, which later came to be known as Bhinga. The Pandavas are believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this very spot and installed the Shivling that remains the focal point of devotion today.

Devotees traveled not only from across Shravasti but also from neighboring districts and even Nepal to pay homage at the shrine. Many began their pilgrimage on Sunday evening itself, carrying holy water from Sita Sarovar at Sitadwar, Jangaldas Kutti, and other sacred sources, walking barefoot to the temple to perform the ritual ablutions with full religious observance. Long queues were also reported at other prominent Shiva temples across the district, including the famous Baba Jharkhandinath temple in Gilaula.

Police and district administration remained on high alert throughout the day to manage the massive crowds. CCTV surveillance was deployed around the temple complex, and both uniformed and plainclothes officers were stationed to ensure security and smooth darshan for the thousands who gathered to mark the auspicious conclusion of the Sawan month.