Shillai gears up for Mahasu Maharaj’s grand homecoming

Unmatched devotion is sweeping across the Himachal-Uttarakhand border as the region prepares for the grand arrival of Chhatradhari Chalda Mahasu Maharaj. With nearly one lakh pilgrims expected to accompany the divine palanquin on Saturday from Meenus to Drabil, and on Sunday from Drabil to Pashmi, the administration has moved into maximum readiness to manage one of the largest religious gatherings witnessed in the Shillai region in decades.

Under the supervision of Shillai SDM Jaspal Singh and Paonta Sahib DSP Manvendra Singh Thakur, the entire stretch of NH-707 has been divided into four operational sectors. Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars have been appointed as Sector Magistrates, while the SDM and DSP continue to review arrangements on the ground. Nearly 200 police personnel have been deployed to maintain order and regulate the anticipated surge in foot movement. Traffic diversions have already been announced and residents have been advised to avoid the yatra route during peak hours.

Industries, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour & Employment Minister and local MLA Harshwardhan Chauhan has been leading preparations for nearly a month. He has been reviewing logistics, ensuring uninterrupted water and electricity supply and coordinating with organisers to meet the needs of the massive devotee turnout. The minister will also join the yatra as a devotee accompanying the palanquin. “Where the divine steps fall, peace follows. Serving the devotees in this sacred journey is not a duty, it is a blessing,” he said.

A miraculous moment earlier this week uplifted the spirits of devotees in Jaunsar-Bawar. As per tradition, once the deity moves forward, the palanquin never turns back. But in Dasau, the palanquin reversed unexpectedly after a group of young girls began crying upon missing the customary gifts offered by the deity. The reversal — witnessed by thousands — went viral online and further strengthened belief among followers. Soon after the yatra proceeded, the sacred Dasau temple was locked, where it will remain sealed until the deity’s return, perhaps decades or centuries later.

Another emotional chapter unfolded when the Maharaj ended the centuries-old exile of the ‘Chhatraan’ family. Once closely linked to the deity’s service, the family had lived away for generations due to alleged ritual errors. This year, the palanquin entered their newly built home, symbolically ending an exile spanning 14 generations.

Each night since December 8, nearly 20,000-30,000 devotees have been sleeping in open fields at baagdi halts, to remain close to the deity. After nearly three years in Dasau, Mahasu Maharaj now advances toward Himachal. As the deity prepares to cross the Tons River on Saturday, the entire region stands ready to welcome spiritual spectacle.