UP: Six-day Mudiya Poono fair to begin in Govardhan tomorrow
The six-day Mudiya Poono fair, also known as "mini Kumbh", will begin in UP's Mathura tomorrow. It's called "mini Kumbh" as at least 20 million pilgrims would perform "parikrama" of the Govardhan hillock between July 23-28, District Magistrate Sarvagyaram Mishra said. A thick layer of sand has been laid on 23km-long "parikrama" track to prevent its surface from becoming slippery, in case it rains.
Arrangements done to cater to travel needs of the pilgrims
Over 1,500 buses would ply on different routes to cater to the travel needs of pilgrims, Mishra said. Railways will also keep two trains on standby at the Mathura Junction station. Each train would run on the Alwar and Kasganj route daily, he said, adding extra ticket counters in Govardhan and Mathura have been opened. Jhansi-Agra Up/Dn passenger trains have been extended to Mathura.
22 parking areas have been provided
The fair area has been divided into six super zones, 21 zones, and 60 sectors, the DM said, adding super-zones would be supervised by additional district magistrates. Mishra said 22 parking-areas have been earmarked but suggested pilgrims use public transport as heavy rain can make these places slippery or inundate them. Sale of genuine milk, dairy products, and eatables have been ensured, Mishra said.
Story behind Mudiya Poono fair
Disciple Sanatana Goswami, in order to show devotion towards Lord Krishna, used to perform the "parikrama" (93km) every day. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Krishna presented him a piece of rock, with an inscription of a flute, a hoof of a cow, his own lotus foot, and his "Lakuti" ( baton). Four parikramas around that rock were equal to one parikrama of Govardhan.
