Assam: Mahashivratri celebrations begin at historic Shiva Dol in Sivasagar

OUR CORRESPONDENT

SIVASAGAR: The grand celebrations of Maha Shivratri have commenced at the historic Shiva Dol in Sivasagar, built during the Ahom dynasty, with devotees gathering from early hours today to offer prayers. Simultaneously, the annual Shivratri fair, which began on Tuesday evening, will continue until February 28, featuring a range of religious and cultural activities.

The Shiva Dol, a significant architectural and spiritual landmark, was constructed by Queen Ambika, wife of Ahom Swargadeo Siva Singha, near a large pond in Kalanchuporia Gohain Gaon. She also commissioned the construction of the Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol on either side of the Shiva Dol. The pond, named Sivasagar in honour of her husband, has since been a central part of Sivasagar’s history. Since the reign of Swargadeo Siva Singha, the dol has been a focal point for Shivratri celebrations.

Over time, a fair began to be held in the Dol premises, and this year, it is being celebrated with great enthusiasm as part of a four-day programme. On Tuesday evening, in a grand event, the fair was officially inaugurated by Akhil Gogoi, MLA of the Sivasagar constituency, in the presence of Jorhat MP Gaurav Gogoi as a distinguished guest.

Speaking at the event, MP Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the Shiva Dol’s spiritual significance and its importance to devotees, emphasizing the need for peace and development in Sivasagar. He assured his support for the progress of Sivasagar and expressed his admiration for the overwhelming public participation in the celebrations.

MLA Akhil Gogoi, while inaugurating the fair, remarked on the historical legacy of the Shiva Dol, which has hosted Shivratri celebrations since 1734. He expressed his honour in inaugurating the fair at one of the most significant Shiva temples in the country. He further announced that funds have been secured from the Archaeological Survey of India for the restoration of historical sites, including Shiva Dol, Talatal Ghar, Rang Ghar, and Ghanashyam Ghar. Additionally, a botanical garden has been developed near the Joysagar tank.

He also mentioned that Rs 25 crore has been allocated for the development of the Sivasagar tank area, emphasizing the community’s role in preserving the dol’s heritage. He noted that the Shivratri fair in Sivasagar is the largest in Assam, attracting visitors from across India.

Further, Akhil Gogoi announced a Rs 50 lakh grant for the construction of the Dr. Moidul Islam Bora Auditorium in Sivasagar town. He also assured continued efforts to highlight Sivasagar’s rich heritage in the state assembly. Major development projects were also discussed, including a Rs 448 crore plan for Brahmaputra flood control and Rs 142 crore for the Rang Ghar project, among others.

The inaugural programme began with a devotional chant led by Padma Chetia of the Rangpuriya Mahila Samiti. Aayush Garg, District Commissioner of Sivasagar and President of the Sivasagar Temple Development Board, assured all efforts for a peaceful and successful festival. Several dignitaries, including Dr. Dibya Kumar Rajkhowa, Bikash Dey, Samiran Bora, Anamuddin Ahmed, and Monirul Islam Bora, attended the event.

Devotees, saints, and traders from across the country have gathered in Sivasagar for the fair. Today, District Commissioner Aayush Garg inaugurated a devotional cultural programme at Dolmukh Chariali. Following this, Janaki Mahila Cultural Group presented a traditional play titled ‘Matsya Avatar and the Retrieval of the Four Vedas.’

On February 27, Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu is set to unveil a commemorative book, ‘Muktinath,’ published by the Sivasagar Temple Development Board, followed by a cultural programme to be inaugurated by Dr. Sabyasachi Mahanta, Principal of Gargaon College. The concluding ceremony on February 28 will feature Public Health Engineering Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah as the chief guest, followed by a musical performance by renowned singer Kalpana Patowary.

To ensure safety, the Shivratri Celebration Committee has installed CCTV cameras around the Shiva Dol premises, including Fuleshwari Girls’ Higher Secondary School Playground, where the fair is being held. Meanwhile, in light of the celebrations, the district administration has declared February 27 a local holiday in Sivasagar.

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