When Does the Gujarat Bhadarvi Poonam Fair Begin?

Ahmedabad, Sep 1 (NationPress) The much-anticipated Bhadarvi Poonam fair at the renowned Ambaji Shaktipeeth in Gujarat officially kicks off today, running until September 7. Authorities predict that over 30 lakh devotees will visit the shrine of Goddess Amba to pay their respects.

Pilgrim groups have already started to arrive, and meticulous preparations have been made to facilitate smooth darshan and effective crowd management.

This year, the fair coincides with a lunar eclipse on September 7, which means temple darshan will close at 5 p.m. on that day. Authorities have established extensive facilities, including railings along the bus stand to the temple route and drinking water stations for those in line.

Designated exit routes have been set up through Ambaji Shaktidwar, Gate 7 near the havan shala, and Gate 8 close to the Bheravji temple. Special provisions have been arranged for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, children, and pregnant women, including wheelchair and e-rickshaw services.

This year, four waterproof domes have been constructed, providing 1,200-bed accommodation, sanitation blocks, CCTV surveillance, mobile charging stations, drinking water, firefighting equipment, and storage facilities.

For the first time, a spectacular drone light show featuring 400 drones is scheduled. This event will take place on September 3 and 4 at 8:30 p.m., showcasing formations of the Ambaji temple, the text “Jai Mataji”, the trishul, and other symbols of divine power lighting up the night sky.

A total of 35 parking zones have been established across 1.83 lakh square meters, capable of accommodating over 22,500 vehicles.

Pilgrims can conveniently pre-book their parking online via the Show My Parking app, with free shuttle buses available to transport them to the temple.

Prasad distribution will be conducted through 28 centers, with 750 workers preparing between 1,000 and 1,200 “ghans” (units) of prasad throughout the fair. It is anticipated that over 30 lakh prasad packets will be distributed, and free meals will also be made available at four designated locations.

Enhanced security measures include a three-tier police force comprising 5,000 personnel, supported by more than 332 CCTV cameras monitoring the fair.

Darshan at the Ambaji temple will commence with the morning aarti from 6 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., followed by general darshan until 11:30 a.m. The temple will close from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. before reopening for darshan from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., and again from 5 p.m. until midnight. After that, the temple will remain closed for the night.

The Ambaji Temple, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district near the Aravalli hills, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and holds immense significance in Hindu tradition. Dedicated to Goddess Amba, it is believed to be the site where the heart of Goddess Sati fell, making it a revered center of Shakti worship.

The temple, which does not house an idol but features a sacred yantra representing the goddess, has been a significant pilgrimage site for centuries, attracting millions of devotees, especially during the annual Bhadarvi Poonam fair. Beyond its religious importance, Ambaji also symbolizes Gujarat’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, serving as a unifying place of faith and devotion for people across India.