On the occasion of the second Monday of Shrawan, thousands of devotees from across the country gathered early this morning at Devghat Dham, the sacred confluence point of Gandaki, Trishuli, and Kaligandaki rivers, situated at the tri-junction of Chitwan, Tanahun, and Nawalparasi districts. Despite intermittent rain, the holy site witnessed an overwhelming crowd of pilgrims taking ritual baths, offering prayers, and participating in the annual “Bolbam Mela.”
Shrawan month holds special spiritual significance for Hindus, particularly Mondays, which are considered auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that offering water to the Shiva Linga and observing fasts on these days help fulfill wishes and bring spiritual merit. In this context, Devghat, a revered pilgrimage site, becomes a central hub for spiritual gatherings during Shrawan.
Sacred Bath and Shiva Worship Mark the Day
From as early as 5 AM, pilgrims were seen immersing themselves in the holy rivers, performing purification rituals, and queuing up at various Shiva temples located within the Devghat complex to offer “Jalabhishek” (water offerings). Many observed fasts, chanting mantras, lighting incense, and engaging in pooja and archana as part of their religious observances.
According to locals and religious leaders, this spiritual tradition is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is said to invoke divine blessings, particularly during the sacred month of Shrawan when Shiva is believed to be most receptive to prayers.
“Even with the rain, the energy and devotion in the atmosphere today are unmatched,” said Pusparaj Paudel, Information Officer at the Devghat Area Development Committee. “People have come from all over Nepal, from Terai to the hills, to take part in the rituals.”
Over Two Hundred Thousand Pilgrims Expected
The Devghat Area Development Committee has been tracking footfall data throughout the month of Shrawan, as thousands of devotees continue to pour in each Monday. As per Paudel, official data collection is conducted daily from 5 AM to 6 PM on both Chitwan and Tanahun sides of the river.
“Since many arrive beyond those hours, we record average estimates,” he said. Sadan Baral, the committee’s Executive Director, estimated that this year’s total number of visitors would exceed 200,000. “Last year, even during heavy rains and landslides, we had around two lakh visitors. This year, we’re expecting even more,” he noted. “From early morning today, even in rainy conditions, the number of worshippers was very high.”
Bolbam Mela Celebrated as a Festival
In line with religious tradition, the day was also celebrated as Bolbam Mela, a spiritual festival particularly popular among Shiva devotees. Clad in saffron attire, chanting “Bolbam” slogans, devotees were seen carrying sacred water, often walking long distances as part of their vow.
The vibrant celebration transformed Devghat into a scene of devotional fervor and cultural expression. The Mela included not only ritualistic offerings but also devotional singing, group prayers, and community feasts organized by religious groups and local communities.
Robust Management for Safety and Services
To ensure the smooth flow of activities, the local administration, security forces, and health services worked in close coordination with the area development committee. Police personnel, health workers, and volunteers were deployed across key areas for crowd control, emergency response, and traffic management.
Baral mentioned that the committee had installed medical assistance booths and deployed first aid teams near the riverbanks and temple premises. “Safety and sanitation are top priorities, especially when dealing with large gatherings during the monsoon season,” he added. The authorities also coordinated with transport providers to manage the flow of incoming buses and vehicles, avoiding congestion near the entry points.
Boost to Local Economy and Festive Atmosphere
The influx of pilgrims also brought a surge in local commerce, as vendors along both banks of the river, from Chitwan and Tanahun sides, set up stalls selling garlands, prayer items, fruits, snacks, and religious souvenirs. Crowds filled these makeshift markets, creating a bustling, festive atmosphere around the temple and bathing areas. Vendors expressed happiness over the high turnout. “We wait for Shrawan month all year. Business during these Mondays supports our families,” said Sita Devi, a local flower seller.
Devghat’s Growing Religious Importance
Devghat Dham, revered as a sacred confluence of major rivers and spiritual forces, is increasingly becoming a national center for pilgrimage and religious tourism. Its mythological significance, combined with accessibility from major cities like Bharatpur and Narayanghat, makes it a popular destination for religious observances like Shrawan Mondays, Makar Sankranti, Bala Chaturdashi, and Maghe Sankranti.
Religious scholars and community leaders have long been advocating for more structured promotion and preservation of Devghat as a year-round spiritual destination. Plans for long-term infrastructure upgrades, including better sanitation, shelter facilities, and riverbank protection, are under review by the Devghat Area Development Committee and local governments.
Devotion Unshaken by Rain
The large turnout on the second Monday of Shrawan is a testament to the devotional resilience of the Nepali people. Rain or shine, faith continues to draw the masses to Devghat, making it a timeless symbol of cultural unity and spiritual energy. As pilgrims return with spiritual fulfillment, the site continues to remind all of the enduring bond between nature, divinity, and humanity.
