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Almora: The world‑famous Jageshwar Dham in Uttarakhand has once again come alive with devotion and spirituality as the sacred Ghrit Kamal ritual began on Makar Sankranti.
According to ancient tradition, Lord Shiva is seated in a cave made of ghee and lotus on the first day of Magh and remains in hibernation for the whole month.
Pure cow ghee is melted with water, cooled, and then shaped into a cave
For several days, temple priests and volunteers prepared the Ghrit Kamal cave inside the temple complex. Pure cow ghee is melted with water, cooled, and then shaped into a cave. Once the cave is ready, special rituals are performed. Amid the chanting of mantras, the Shivalinga is covered with this sacred ghee cave, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s divine rest.
Thousands year old traditions
Devotees believe that Lord Shiva enters hibernation during this month‑long tradition, which has been followed for thousands of years. Throughout Magh, devotees visit Jageshwar Dham to have darshan of Bholenath in this special form.
At the end of the month, the ghee used in the cave is distributed as prasad. According to religious belief, consuming this prasad helps in curing many incurable diseases and brings blessings of health and prosperity.
Temple complex is filled with chants, prayers
The ritual has created a deeply spiritual atmosphere at Jageshwar Dham. The temple complex is filled with chants, prayers, and the fragrance of ghee and incense. A large number of devotees from nearby villages and distant places are arriving daily to witness this rare tradition.
District administration have made special arrangements for devotees
The temple committee and district administration have made special arrangements for the convenience and safety of devotees. Crowd management, security, and facilities for pilgrims have been strengthened to ensure smooth darshan. Volunteers are guiding visitors, while the temple priests are performing rituals with devotion and discipline.
Symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage
The Ghrit Kamal ritual is not just a religious practice but also a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage. It connects devotees with centuries‑old traditions and reinforces their faith in Lord Shiva. For the people of Almora and beyond, this month of Magh is considered highly auspicious, and visiting Jageshwar Dham during this time is believed to bring special blessings.
