Mithila Madhyama Parikrama concludes in Mahottari; pilgrims head to Dhanusha

Mahottari, Feb 24: The participants of the Mithila Madhyama Parikrama (Circumambulation) considered as the Maha Kumbha of Mithila concluded their religious processions in Mahottari district and moved to Dhanusha district today, the ninth day of the function.

The pilgrims had a night stay on the eighth day at Kanchanban in Bhangaha-9 in the district. Kanchanban area is a popular destination for Holi festival in the journey of Mithila Madhyama Parikrama. 

The Mithila Madhyama Parikrama is the time-honoured tradition in which the devotees undertake a pilgrimage on foot to various religious sites in the Mithila region which covers Mahottari and Dhanusha districts of Nepal and the adjoining districts in India.

The locals welcome the circumambulation team following traditional rituals such as puja and chanting of mantra among others. 

The locals also provide free meal, water, electricity and fireworks to thousands of devotees arriving along with the circumambulation team. 

There are several resting points in Nepal and India for the circumambulation team that has been a symbol of religious, cultural and traditional goodwill between Nepal and India. 

The devotees partaking in the religious journey travel 107 kilometres across Nepal and 26 kilometres across India on foot.  

A considerable number of participants, mostly ascetics, are from Ayodhya, Mathura, Haridwar, Darbhanga, Sitamadi, Baijanathdham among others for this year's circumambulation. 

According to the Mithila scripture named Mithila Mahatmya, such a circumambulation tradition is being organized since the 18th century. (RSS)