Assam: Doul festival begins in Barpeta

A Correspondent

Barpeta: The evergreen Doul (Deul) Festival of Barpeta commenced today with traditional fervour and will continue for four days. The celebrations began with Gandhajatra (Banhutsava), marking the first day of the festival.

As part of the rituals, the idols of Kaliya Thakur and Doul Govinda Mahaprabhu were taken out and placed at Mothor Chotal. After performing the customary rituals, Mahaprabhu was encircled around the meji seven times. It is believed that lighting the meji purifies the mind and wards off evil spirits. This ritual, also known as Mekhdaah or Holika Dahan, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Following this, Mahaprabhu was placed in Jogmohan Ghor, and later at night, he was ceremoniously taken to the Doul Griha, once again encircling it seven times.

This year, the festival will feature Bhor Doul for two consecutive days. A large number of devotees from various places have gathered to witness this historical and spiritually significant festival of Barpeta. Tomorrow marks the first Bhor Doul, and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to visit the Barpeta Satra. Another major attraction of Gandhajatra is the spectacular fireworks display (Aatasbaji) crafted by local artisans, adding to the grandeur of the celebrations.

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