Bhavnath Mahashivratri Fair Gets Massive Security Boost with 2,900+ Police in Gujarat
Gujarat enhances security with over 2,900 police for Bhavnath Mahashivratri fair at Girnar from Feb 11-15.
Junagadh is preparing to host one of its largest-ever Mahashivratri fairs at Bhavnath, at the foothills of Girnar, from February 11 to 15. The Gujarat government has announced extensive arrangements to improve access, facilities, and safety for the lakhs of devotees expected to attend the five-day event, often described as a “mini Kumbh.”
The preparations were reviewed at a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who emphasized that this year’s fair would be organized on a larger scale to ensure smoother crowd movement and better amenities. For the first time, a grand city procession will mark the arrival of sadhus and sants on the evening of February 11.
To facilitate a larger gathering for the traditional Ravedi of the Naga sadhus, the procession route has been extended from 1.5 km to 2 km. Officials said this measure would reduce congestion while enabling more devotees to participate in prayers and rituals along the route.
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Security arrangements have been significantly enhanced, with police deployment increasing from the usual 1,600 to over 2,900 personnel. The fair area will also be under continuous CCTV surveillance to ensure safety and prevent untoward incidents. Over 1,000 local youths have been engaged as volunteers, while more than 300 social organizations will provide accommodation and prasad for pilgrims.
In addition to safety measures, the Tourism Department will decorate the route on the theme of Lord Bholenath, and Junagadh city will be illuminated throughout the fair. Facilities for devotees include parking, dormitory-style accommodation, clean drinking water, hygienic toilets, and information centers. The Shahi Snan will also be live-streamed to allow virtual participation for those unable to attend in person.
A devotional song specially composed for the Mahashivratri fair was launched at the meeting, attended by Sanghavi, Minister of State for Youth Services and Cultural Activities Jayram Gamit, religious leaders, and senior officials. Authorities assured that every effort is being made to make the fair safe, memorable, and spiritually enriching for all attendees.
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