Borigumma: The Magha Mandei festival, a historic and traditional tribal celebration, was recently observed in the Borigumma region. This festival is held to express gratitude to Baba Bhairav for a good harvest in the past season and to pray for prosperity and a bountiful harvest in the coming days.
Thousands of devotees gathered at the Baba Bhairav Shrine to participate in the rituals of this festival of faith and tradition. The Magha Mandei Yatra is celebrated every year, preserving the rich tribal heritage of the region.
The festival is held on the last Friday of the Magha month each year. Baba Bhairav has been worshipped at the foothills of Deulguda Hills in Borigumma for generations, with the area also known as Bhairav Bhumi. The origin of this festival dates back to ancient times, possibly during the rule of local kings.
Since Koraput district is predominantly tribal, people from this region participate wholeheartedly, praying to Baba Bhairav for the well-being of their crops, livestock, and families. The festival also serves as a way to thank Baba Bhairav for past blessings and seek his favor for future prosperity.
Every three years, a grand Bali Yatra is organized, while the Magha Mandei Yatra is celebrated annually. It is widely believed that any devotee who makes a sincere wish to Baba Bhairav will have their prayers fulfilled.
Devotees from neighboring states like Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh also travel to Borigumma to seek blessings from Baba Bhairav. The festival transcends caste, religion, and community, drawing people from all walks of life.
The celebrations begin with a procession (Lathi Yatra) from Old Borigumma to the Bhairav Temple. The procession includes participation from political leaders, ministers, and dignitaries who come to receive Baba Bhairav’s blessings. Devotees line up early in the morning for temple darshan (viewing the deity).
The festival also features local markets offering a variety of snacks, traditional foods, and fun activities, attracting both locals and visitors. The festivities continue for two days, marked by joy and cultural vibrancy.
Jaypur MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati and former minister Rabi Narayan Nanda were among the notable attendees who paid their respects at the temple.
To manage the large crowds, Borigumma police took necessary security measures and efficiently controlled traffic during the event. The temple management committee also arranged for the distribution of prasada (holy offerings) to all devotees, ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience for everyone.
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