GORKHA: The 20th Rot Mahotsav (festival) began in the Gorkha-based temple of Gorakhnath today.
The 11-day festival aims to promote the local and religious tourism in the district, encouraging people to seek a spiritual life, according to organizer Siddhashram Shakti Kendra (SSK). The festival will conclude on May 15.
Mythically it is believed that Rot which is baked from rice flour dough prepared by mixing 52 types of ingredients including coconut, clove, cardamom, and sugar with ritualistic procedures is the favorite food for the Guru Gorakhnath. It is believed that Guru Gorkhanath first appeared in the Gorkha Cave.
According to SSK Gorkha coordinator Kishor Kumar Akela, Rot is offered to the Gorakhnath Temple each day, but it has been celebrated as a grand festival since the 20 years of the initiation of the SSK. Over 125 thousand Rots will be offered to the Gorakhnath Temple during the festival which is celebrated in a grand way.
Rots are prepared in two ways: Bhungre Rot which is baked on the fire and Tawa Rot which is prepared by frying with ghee in a pan.
The middle part of the rot is slightly up, reflecting the mythical significance of the Rot. It is made by pressing two fingers while giving the dough the shape of Rot and it makes the Rot special. Rots are peppered in small sizes.
The organizers have managed food and accommodation for devotees visiting the festival. A chariot procession, meditation and yoga camps, and Hawan and bhajan kirtan (singing of mythical and devotional songs and dancing) are other parts of the festival.
A chariot procession was held this morning from the Buspark at the Gorkha headquarters to the Gorakhnath Temple to mark the commencement of the festival. Each year, the festival begins on the Day of Buddha Jayanti and is organised for 11 days.
Devotees from different parts of the country and from India arrive here to observe the festival. Around 100 thousand people are expected to visit the festival this year.
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