Is Kashi Vishwanath Temple Ready for the Sawan Surge with 1.5 Crore Devotees Expected?

Varanasi, July 5 (NationPress) As the sacred month of Sawan approaches, commencing on July 11, preparations at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple are underway in earnest. The temple authorities predict an influx of approximately 1.5 crore devotees this year, all eager to receive the blessings of Baba Vishwanath.

Last year, over one crore devotees participated in the ritual of Jalabhishek, where water is offered to Lord Shiva. This year, the turnout is expected to surpass that record, prompting extensive arrangements by both the temple and local authorities.

To facilitate crowd management, zig-zag barricades have been installed to ensure a seamless and secure darshan experience. Carpets have been placed throughout the temple to protect devotees from the heated floor. Facilities such as ORS solutions, first aid, drinking water, and portable toilets have been strategically positioned across the site.

The Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas in Hinduism, is of immense spiritual importance. Devotees from all corners of India and beyond flock to Varanasi during Sawan to offer water and perform rituals in homage to Lord Shiva. The city becomes a vibrant hub of devotion, with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' resonating along its ghats and streets.

Vishwa Bhushan Mishra, CEO of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, shared with IANS, "Our SOP for crowd management during Sawan is in effect. Comprehensive barricading is in place, and German hangers have been installed to shield devotees from the elements. Health desks have been established at five key locations to provide emergency assistance."

He continued, "We are distributing biscuits, flour, chocolate toffees, ORS, glucose, jaggery, and water to keep devotees energized. Our health center operates round the clock. Special provisions like gold cards have been created for children, senior citizens, and those with disabilities to ensure a safe and comfortable darshan experience."

In addition to physical arrangements, digital broadcasting of temple rituals has been launched.

"Aartis are streamed live through a dedicated web link associated with the Smart City project. Devotees can view the live broadcasts on LED screens throughout Varanasi or online from the comfort of their homes," Mishra added.

Enhancing the spiritual atmosphere, flower showers—a cherished tradition at the temple—will continue this year to welcome and bless visitors.

Issuing a caution, the CEO emphasized the importance of health and safety.

"The number of devotees should not become a record-breaking endeavor. We encourage those who are unwell to avoid the crowds and instead watch our live broadcasts on YouTube or plan their visits on less busy days," he concluded.