Dolakha to host three-day religious festival on Bhima Ekadashi

By Our Correspondent, Dolakha, Feb. 20: A grand fair is going to be held at Bhimeshwor Temple of Bhimeshwor Municipality-2 in Dolakha district on the day of Bhima Ekadashi. Stalin Shrestha, ward chairperson, said that unlike in the past, a grand fair of Bhima Ekadashi would be held this time.

Bhima Ekadashi used to be marked only for a day in the past, but this year we are going to celebrate it for three days from February 19 to 21 by organising various programmes, Shrestha said. 

Cultural expert Dr. Jagman Gurung is scheduled to deliver a speech on the historical and religious significance and unique culture of the ancient city of Dolakha Bazaar on February 19.

Shrestha said that on the day of Bhima Ekadashi on February 20, Rudri Puja and Home Yagya would be performed at Bhimeshwar while Aarti puja would be performed in the evening by lighting lamps and hymns would be song by devotees staying awake throughout the night. 

As per mythology, Bhima Ekadashi is celebrated to make the day when merchants who were in debt were relieved from the debt by the grace of lord Mahadev after being satisfied with the worship of Bhimsen.

The festival has been celebrated at Bhimeshwar Temple for centuries, as it is believed that fasting on Bhima Ekadashi will get people rid of their debt. The committee has urged the devotees to offer only Gokul Dhoop, Sal Dhoop or Bateko Dhoop at Bhimeshwar Temple. 

It has also been urged not to offer small iron tridents and bells, and puja items. The devotees who have to offer Trishuls and bells will be allowed to offer only the tridents and bells of the sizes prescribed by the committee.

Roosters, he-goats, eggs and raw coconut are not allowed to be offered during Rudri puja.