The Chief of Madhesh Province, Sumitra Subedi Bhandari, stated that the Mithila Madhyamiki Parikrama is not just a religious journey but also a means of strengthening religious and cultural harmony between Nepal and India.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Mithila Bihari Dola in Mithila Bihari Municipality-8, Dhanusha, she emphasized that the parikrama (pilgrimage circuit) provides an opportunity to enhance religious, cultural, and diplomatic relations between Nepal and India. She further highlighted that naming the Mithila Bihari Municipality after a religious site reinforces its spiritual significance.
“The naming of Bihari reflects deep religious faith. This region is advancing its religious and cultural heritage towards progress and prosperity,” said Bhandari. The tradition of carrying the deity’s Dola (palanquin) on a pilgrimage extends to various locations in Nepal and India and lasts for 15 days. Rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, this pilgrimage unites people through shared spiritual devotion.
“This pilgrimage strengthens religious faith while also serving as a confluence of diverse cultures, fostering unity in society,” Bhandari remarked. The event attracts millions of devotees, saints, and spiritual leaders from different regions of Nepal and India.
She further emphasized the need to preserve and promote the religious and cultural significance of the parikrama, stating, “This spiritual journey serves as a message of harmony, friendship, and cooperation between the people of both countries. It strengthens the diplomatic, religious, and mutual ties between Nepal and India.”
Referring to Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, she noted that Mithila is another name for Goddess Sita, and the Mithilanchal region is revered as a sacred land with historical, religious, and cultural importance recognized both domestically and internationally.
The Mithila Madhyamiki Parikrama will continue for 15 days, stopping at various religious sites in Nepal and India. Chief Bhandari called on residents to extend their hospitality to saints, monks, Nagas, and other devotees participating in the pilgrimage. She also extended her best wishes for the successful completion of the journey.
During the pilgrimage, devotees will visit Mithila Bihari, Kishori Ji, and other major religious sites, before concluding the journey at Janakpur Dham with the Panchakoshi Parikrama and a visit to the Janaki Temple.
Recognized as Nepal’s Maha Kumbh, the 15-day-long Mithila Madhyamiki Parikrama holds immense spiritual and cultural significance. On the occasion of its inauguration, Chief Bhandari expressed confidence that the pilgrimage would be completed, further enriching the religious and cultural heritage of the region.
