No Guru Purnima fair in Mathura for the first time in over 400 years

Agra: For the first time in over 400 years, Guru Purnima (known as Mudia fair), which is held in Mathura every year and attended by millions of devotees from across the country, has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Also, all shrines across the district, besides Sri Krishna Janmasthan temple, will remain shut for the public till July 8.

A decision of cancelling the five-day fair, which was to commence on July 5 this year, was taken by district authorities after a meeting with stakeholders, including public representatives, traders, saints and temple management, confirmed the district magistrate Sarvagya Ram Misra. He told TOI that it is difficult to maintain social distancing in such large gatherings.

However, some saints suggested that they would take out a symbolic procession of five saints for continuation of this age-old tradition. The administration assured them that it would consider their suggestion and do whatever best under the circumstances. Incidentally, this fair is considered as a "mini Kumbh" by locals.

Last year, around 1,250 buses were arranged for pilgrims coming from different states such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Six special trains were also run by the Railways, especially for the devotees.

Talking to TOI on Friday, Mathura’s assistant regional manager, BK Shukla, said that thousands of devotees thronged the temple of Lord Krishna last year to offer special prayers to mark the festival of Guru Purnima, which is celebrated to honour the spiritual teachers. Chanting hymns and carrying religious offerings, believers make a beeline to pay respect to Lord Krishna.

According to Hindu mythology, the festival is celebrated to express gratitude towards one's Guru (spiritual teacher). The disciples and devotees take Parikrama (round) of the Govardhan Hill on this day. They also take a bath in the Manasi Ganga Kund to pay their respect to Govardhan and earn rewards.

Hindus believe that Guru is the only person who can guide them on the path to 'Moksh' (emancipation). Last year, over 82 lakh tourists visited the temple towns of Mathura and Vrindavan while 77 lakh visited in 2018.


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