lord Krishna and Garuda travelled through ropeway from Chavni Bazaar to Narsingh Temple in Joshimath during Garudchhad Mela that was organised in Panchayat Ghar located on the premises of Narsingh Temple on the occasion of Akshay Tritiya on Monday.
The fair, which was organised after 30 years, drew thousands of devotees from local areas. Dev Pujai Samiti took the efforts for organising the fair which began after head priest of Badrinath temple Keshav Prasad Nambudari reached Panchayat Ghar.
As per tradition, Garuda, the mount of lord Vishnu, was lifted in the air with the help of a rope. Thereafter, the historical statue of lord Vishnu was made to travel in air through a rope. As Vishnu’s statue reached Narsingh Temple, thousands of devotees showered flowers.
The fair has mythological importance for having connection with the opening of portal of Badrinath Temple. It is said that lord Nar Narayan appeared here on this day. As per tradition, Garuda, carrying lord Vishnu, along with seat of Shankaracharya and the head priest of Badrinath will leave for the shrine on Tuesday.
For the purpose, Dev Pujai Samiti took efforts to rejuvenate the fair after 30 years. Kalam Singh Kavan of the Samiti said, “The fair will be expanded next year and we will start Mukhauta Nritya (mask dance). The fair could not be organised during last 30 years in absence of patronage and management.”
Idols of lord Vishnu and Garud were taken to Panchayat hall by head priest of Badrinath Temple. The fair concluded with this ceremony. Thousands of devotees from different areas gathered on the occasion.