Devotional procession and night kirtan draw hundreds of Shyam devotees
Key Points:
- 251 devotees joined a four-kilometer Nishan Yatra in Sonari
- Renowned bhajan singers led late-night devotional performances
- Festival concluded with maha aarti and chhappan bhog distribution
JAMSHEDPUR – A large devotional gathering in Sonari marked the 23rd Shyam Mahotsav with processions, prayers, and night-long kirtans.
The 23rd Shyam Mahotsav was organized by Shri Shyam Seva Sangh, Sonari, on Saturday. The event was held in two phases under the leadership of president Ashok Diwan.
In the first phase, a Nishan Yatra began at 1.30 pm from Sonari Ram Temple. However, the procession covered nearly four kilometers through several routes.
The yatra concluded at Laxmi Narayan Marwari Temple, the festival venue. Meanwhile, 251 devotees carried Nishans while chanting hymns and slogans.
Two large flags led the procession, one representing Shyam Baba and another Hanuman. Moreover, devotees raised chants of Jai Shri Shyam throughout the route.
An artist portraying Shyam Baba rode a horse at the front. On the other hand, a decorated vehicle carried the symbolic Shyam court.
Before departure, Nishans were worshipped at Ram Temple. The rituals were performed by Pandit Bipin Pandey.
The main hosts for the rituals were Piyush Chudiwala and Mahesh Agrawal. Several prominent residents joined the procession.
The area remained immersed in devotion during the afternoon. Many participants sought blessings during the procession and evening events.
The second phase featured night kirtans starting at 9.15 pm. Meanwhile, Uma and Pankaj Agrawal performed ceremonial worship.
Pandit Bipin Pandey conducted prayers and tied protective threads to devotees. Moreover, bhajan singers Adarsh Dadhich and Shubham Agrawal performed.
They presented multiple devotional songs dedicated to Shyam Baba. The audience responded with applause and devotional participation.
The kirtan continued until late night. However, the festival concluded around 2 am.
After the maha aarti, chhappan bhog was distributed among devotees. The event ended peacefully.
During the procession, refreshments were arranged along the route. Services were provided near residences and commercial points.
The main attractions included the Nishan Yatra, grand darbar, lighting, and bhajans. In contrast, skilled artisans from Bengal designed the decorated darbar.
Hundreds of devotees attended the festival events. Organizers acknowledged support from several association members.
The contributors included Ashok Diwan, Shyam Agrawal, Arvind Agrawal, and Manish Garg. Moreover, many other members assisted in arrangements.
For similar events, see Shyam Mahotsav Sonari and Annual Shyam Mahotsav. More reports include 21st Shyam Mahotsav, Sakchi Shyam Mahotsav, and Bistupur Temple Event.
