Bhavnath Mahadev Mela

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela is celebrated near the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, situated at the foothills of Mount Girnar, in the Junagarh city of Gujarat. The fair takes place on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. It is organized in the month of February and lasts for five days. According to Hindu mythology, Girnar is believed to be the abode of the nine Nathas. They are the immortal Lords and Protectors as well as nine of eighty-four Siddhas, the spiritually elevated souls. All of them are said to be residing in the temple in their invisible spiritual bodies

On the festival of Mahashivratri, the mahapuja (grand worship) of Lord Shiva takes place in the temple. The worship begins at midnight, on the 14th day of the dark half of the Hindu month of Magh. As soon as the prayer ceremony starts, the Naga Babas, living nearby, march towards the Bhavnath Mahadev Mela. They are naked sages who can be seen seated on elephants, holding flags in their hands and blowing shells. The place is washed over by the tides of spirituality and devotion.

The fanatic sages show their gratitude towards the Lord by shouting aloud His name and seek His blessings in return. According to the belief of local people, Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on this holy occasion. The pilgrims are served free meals by the organizers. Special stalls selling idols, rosaries or holy beads, utensils of brass and copper, sweets and fruits flank the venue of the fair. These stalls are brought here especially for the Bhavnath Mahadev Mela, by the vendors of Ayodhya and Mathura.