Purnagiri Mela , Champawat

The Purnagiri festival holds profound religious significance in Uttarakhand, India, dedicated to Goddess Purnagiri, also known as Goddess Kali celebrated at the Purnagiri Temple near Tanakpur in the Champawat district.  It is held in Shri Poornagiri Temple in Uttarakhand situated at Annapurna Peak offering panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayas. The location adds to the spiritual significance of the event, as devotees have to undertake a challenging pilgrimage to reach the temple.The area where the temple is settled now is believed to be the place where the part of the navel of Sati and Savant Prajapati was cut down by the Vishnu Chakra. The revered temple is one of the Shakti Peethas. It is believed that Godess Sati fulfill the desire of Devotees. It is believed that Daksha Prajapati father of Sati organised a ceremony in which he did not invite Lord Shiva. Sati felt insulted and jumped into fire. The burnt part of the Sati fell here when Lord Shiva was carrying her body, and this became a Shakti peeth. The Purnagiri Festival takes place during the Hindu month of Chaitra, which falls between March and April according to the Gregorian calendar. The exact dates of the festival vary each year, and it typically lasts for nine days. During this period, devotees from various parts of the country gather at the temple to worship the goddess and seek her blessings. Around 3-4 lacs of pilgrims visit the temple during the festival of Navratri to seek blessings from the deity. Devotees embark on a rigorous pilgrimage to the temple, often on foot, as a testament to their dedication. The atmosphere resonates with religious fervor, with pilgrims singing devotional songs and engaging in sacred rituals. The festival is renowned for its vibrant fair, where local artisans and traders showcase and sell erse handicrafts, textiles, and other items. This lively fair creates a bustling atmosphere filled with activities and entertainment for attendees of all ages. The festival begins with the traditional lighting of the holy lamp and the recitation of sacred mantras. The temple is adorned with colorful decorations, and devotees offer prayers, flowers, and fruits to the goddess. The atmosphere is filled with devotion, with continuous chants and devotional songs dedicated to the goddess. In essence, the Purnagiri festival serves as a sacred occasion, highlighting the rich cultural and religious traditions of Uttarakhand, offering a memorable experience for both pilgrims and visitors. One of the highlights of the Purnagiri Festival is the belief that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees. Many people visit the temple with specific requests, such as good health, prosperity, or success. It is believed that sincere prayers made during the festival are more likely to be answered.