Junagadh, Feb 10 (NationPress) The annual Mahashivratri Fair at Bhavnath, nestled in the foothills of Girnar in Gujarat's Junagadh, is set to officially commence on Wednesday with the ceremonial flag hoisting at the Bhavnath temple, as announced by officials on Tuesday.

This five-day religious festival, which attracts thousands of devotees, sadhus, and tourists annually, will be conducted with extensive administrative measures in place to ensure a smooth experience and sufficient facilities for the pilgrims.

The fair represents a crucial religious assembly linked to Shaivite traditions, prominently featuring ascetics and saints from various akhadas across India.

A ceremonial procession of sadhus and saints is planned for the inaugural day, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.

Preparations for this event have been coordinated by the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board in collaboration with local administration, under the direction of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the Deputy Chief Minister.

New this year is the inclusion of a 'Damru Yatra' to showcase the spiritual and cultural heritage associated with Lord Shiva.

The procession will occur on February 11, starting at 7 p.m. from the Bhavnath entrance gate, traversing a route of nearly 400 meters to the Bhavnath temple.

Girls from various communities will carry a sacred kalash as part of the welcoming ceremony for the saints.

The event will culminate with a Maha Aarti at the temple grounds.

Arrangements for overnight accommodation have been organized for visiting pilgrims.

A German dome capable of housing 800 to 850 devotees has been established over approximately 2,000 square meters.

This facility comprises 700 beds and 150 floor bedding options.

Support services such as 24-hour housekeeping, medical aid, mobile charging stations, and separate luggage storage have also been arranged.

To facilitate vehicle movement and alleviate congestion near the fair area, parking facilities have been developed at 25 locations, including Uparkot, Panjrapole, and near the Vagheshwari temple.

Each parking area is equipped with CCTV cameras, drinking water, toilet facilities, floodlights, and constant police presence.

Free rickshaw services will be provided from parking locations to the fair area for individuals with disabilities.

The Bhavnath fair vicinity and nearby routes are adorned with Lord Shiva themed decorations.

Floral arrangements have been made at the Bhavnath temple, and lighting setups have been installed along the procession paths, at akhadas, Damodar Kund, and six main entry gates.

Six designated selfie points have also been created.

Additional provisions include 140 drinking water stations, 28 medical counters, 10 bottle-crusher machines for waste management, 118 temporary toilets, and six mobile toilets.

The local authorities have also organized cultural events, a light-and-sound show, barricading, and security measures.

The royal procession of sadhus and the ceremonial royal bath at Mrugi Kund on the night of Mahashivratri will be pivotal attractions during the fair.