Sacred Palanquin Journey of Goddess Bhekli Begins

Devotees have set out on a sacred pilgrimage to collect consecrated wood for the reconstruction of Goddess Bhekli’s palanquin.

In a deeply spiritual and traditional display, thousands of devotees from Sari Kothi today embarked on the journey from the Bhekli Temple, located above Akhara Bazaar in Kullu, to Maharaja Kothi in Kmand, Mandi. The purpose: to bring back sanctified wood, blessed by Sage Parashar, for crafting the new palanquin of Goddess Bhekli.

This marks a historic moment—the palanquin of Goddess Bhekli, the presiding deity of Sari Kothi, is being rebuilt after a gap of fifty years. The ritual to obtain the sacred wood began with great fervor as devotees, joined by representatives of nearly ten other deities of Sari Kothi, proceeded on foot via Dhalpur toward Kmand.

Along the route, the symbols of the participating deities were carried with deep reverence, accompanied by traditional bands and age-old rituals. Priest Rakesh Sharma explained that the decision to rebuild the palanquin was taken during the holy month of Phalgun, when the Goddess herself, through a divine sign, instructed her followers to undertake this sacred task. Preparations had been ongoing since then, culminating in today’s grand procession.

Tomorrow, devotees will return to the Bhekli Temple with the consecrated wood, paving the way for the construction of the new palanquin. For the people of Kullu, this is far more than a ritual—it is a renewal of faith. Goddess Bhekli, revered as the clan deity of the former royal family and guardian of Sari Kothi, holds a central place in the valley’s spiritual life.

Her divine role extends to the world-renowned International Dussehra Festival, which begins only after the ceremonial green flag is waved from Bhekli Hill. Similarly, the Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath at Dhalpur commences only with her blessings. With the new palanquin, devotees believe her grace will continue to safeguard the valley’s peace, prosperity, and spiritual vitality.