Amethi: The three-day Mahakumbh at the ancient and culturally significant Nand Baba Dham in Nand Mahar, Amethi, began on Tuesday with thousands of devotees arriving from across the country. The pilgrimage site, revered especially by the Yadav community, witnessed large gatherings of worshippers offering prayers, performing rituals, and seeking prosperity, peace, and well-being to the beats of traditional drums.
According to ancient belief, offering prayers and prasad at this site frees devotees from evil influences. A long-standing tradition of hoisting special flags at the temple continues to draw devotees every year. Local authorities have deployed personnel and completed preparations to ensure the historic fair is conducted smoothly.
A Site Rooted in Mythology
Located about 15 km from the Amethi district headquarters in Gauriganj, Nand Baba Dham holds great mythological importance for the Yadav community. Various legends surround its origin, the most prominent linking it to the Dwapar era.
As per belief, the area was once ruled by a king named Paundrak, who falsely claimed to be Vasudev. Upon learning this, Vasudev sent Lord Krishna and his brother Balaram from Dwarka to Kashi to defeat the arrogant ruler. When the brothers took long to return, Vasudev and Nand Baba reached this forested region in search of them. It was here that the two groups finally reunited.
The legend says Krishna, Balaram, Vasudev, and Nand Baba stayed at the site for three days, during which a yajna was performed. Nand Baba is believed to have installed a deity idol here and offered worship, sanctifying the site with the presence of these revered figures. Over time, villages such as Narayanpur, Kashipur, Keshavpur, Vasayakpur, Nadiyawa, and Harikaranpur developed around the region.
A mud platform was initially built at the spot where Nand Baba prayed; later, a temple was constructed on the same spot. Devotees believe that after the birth of a cow or buffalo, milk must first be offered to Nand Baba before use, ensuring abundance in the household. Every Tuesday, people of all castes and religions offer milk here, while on Kartik Purnima, Yadav devotees from across India offer colourful flags as part of the ritual.
A Destination for Prominent Leaders
Nand Baba Dham has attracted several notable figures over the decades. Former Prime Ministers Rajiv Gandhi and V.P. Singh, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav, former Union Minister Sharad Yadav, and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav are among the many political leaders who have visited the shrine.
Security Tightened for Mahakumbh
The three-day Mahakumbh, which began on Tuesday, will continue until Wednesday. To maintain order and ensure devotees’ safety, a large police force has been deployed across the area.
The festival continues to be a symbol of cultural heritage, faith, and community harmony for the region.