 Kaila Devi fair is organized in the Karauli town of Rajasthan and is one of the most vibrant fairs boasting the cultural heritage of the state. The fair not only comprise socio cultural events but also possesses a religious significance. Kaila Devi temple, situated at the bank of Kalisil River in the hills of Trikut, serves as the central venue of the fair. The Khinchis, the princess of Karauli and Yadavas consider Kaila Devi as their guardian deity since ages. Kaila Devi is believed to be a form of Chamunda, the goddess of death and Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Celebrated in the month of March-April, the festival lasts for about a fortnight. The fair allures a number of devotees who visit the temple during the event to offer their prayers to the deity.
 Rituals of Kaila Devi Fair
Kanak-Dandoti is an important ritual observed during the fair by the devotees. In this ritual, devotees cover a long distance of about 15 to 20 kilometres on foot but by lying prostrate to reach the temple. While advancing, they make lines with their hands and proceed up to the line and repeat the process till they reach the temple. Some people halt during the ritual to take rest and have some food whereas others follow it in a rigorous manner without a break. This tradition is especially followed by the successors of Goli Bhagat, a great devotee of Kaila Devi, who come to visit the temple from Agra to pay homage to the deity. Various offerings are also made by the devotees to the deity. Attractions of Kaila Devi Fair Kaila Devi fair also attracts numerous traders who visit the fair to display and sell a wide range of indigenous products and exquisite handicrafts. Cultural heritage of the state finds expression through the cultural performances of Meena tribesmen who arrive at the fair to augment the festive spirit. Local people also perform in the fair offering a unique flavour of the region. The spacious courtyard of the temple serves as the venue for the dances and songs performed in praise of the deity. Near Kaila Devi temple, another small temple of Bhairon and a temple Lord Hanuman which is locally called 'Languriya' are also located which also invites several devotees. The fair is greatly cherished by the visitors and devotees of all communities belonging to various regions of the nation. (Last Updated on : 12-09-2015) |
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