Chalda Mahasu Devta to reach Himachal for first time

Pankaj Sharma

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Nahan, July 14

In a landmark event, the revered Chalda Mahasu Devta, a symbol of divine faith for millions, will cross the Tons from Uttarakhand to reach Himachal Pradesh for the first time. This departure from a centuries-old tradition signifies a historic moment for both regions.

Deity to cross tons for year-long stay

• Every 12 years, the Chalda Mahasu Devta moves from Shanthi-Bil in Uttarakhand’s Jaunsar region to Pashi-Bil for the annual Barwaansh (a special worship). Historically, this journey remained within Uttarakhand. However, for the first time, the deity will travel across the Tons to Himachal Pradesh for a year-long stay
• This unprecedented decision was made during the mahapanchayat of 11 regions in Koti Bawar, Jaunsar. The deity’s caretakers, panchayat chiefs and elders of the eleven regions deliberated and agreed to allow the deity to travel to Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district for the Barwaansh worship

The small village of Pashmi, situated in Shillai of Sirmaur district, is preparing for a grand celebration to welcome the deity, whose arrival is anticipated to bring blessings and prosperity to the region.

Every 12 years, the Chalda Mahasu Devta moves from Shanthi-Bil in Uttarakhand’s Jaunsar region to Pashi-Bil for annual Barwaansh (a special worship). Historically, this journey remained within Uttarakhand. However, for the first time, the deity will reach Himachal Pradesh for a year-long stay.

This unprecedented decision was made during the mahapanchayat of 11 regions in Koti Bawar, Jaunsar. The deity’s caretakers, panchayat chiefs and elders of the eleven regions deliberated and agreed to allow the deity to travel to Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district for the Barwaansh worship.

Talking to The Tribune, Rajguru Chand Ram of Mahasu Deity Temple said, “Breaking the centuries-old tradition, the deity will cross the Tons to reach Pashmi village in Himachal Pradesh for a year-long stay.”

Although Mahasu Devta’s travel journey will take place in April, the exact date of this historic journey has not been decided yet. The date will be announced with the approval of the deity, he added.

The priest of Mahasu Devta Temple, Mohan Lal Semwal, said originally, the deity was scheduled to move from the Dashau region to the Mashak region within Uttarakhand. However, the deity’s approval to travel to Pashmi village led to this significant change in the traditional itinerary. After spending a year in Himachal Pradesh, the Chalda Mahasu Devta will return to the Kandoi Bhram and Mashak regions of Uttarakhand.

Diwan Singh Rana, the head of 39 regions of Shanthi-Bil, said the preparations for this historic journey had already begun. Next year, during the month of Baisakh (April), the deity will travel to Himachal’s Pashmi village for the special worship, he added.

Residents of Shillai are preparing for a grand celebration to welcome the deity, anticipating blessings and prosperity. Nitin Chauhan, a resident of Pashmi, said, “The village is now in full preparation mode to welcome the deity.”