The Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar is experiencing a huge surge of devotees as the Sawan month begins. The temple opened at 4:17 AM on Sunday, initiating the water offering ritual. The entire area around the temple is filled with the chants of Shiva devotees, and Kanwariyas are moving forward to offer prayers. Pilgrims from all over India and other countries are present to worship Lord Shiva. On Saturday night, the line of devotees extended to the B.Ed College, with the water offering starting at 4:19 AM. By Saturday night, 190,161 devotees had offered water. Moreover, 48,965 devotees used the external Argha, 129,756 used the internal Argha, and 11,440 availed Sheegra Darshanam coupons. The Deputy Commissioner, Naman Priyesh Lakra, reported that many officials and staff assigned to Sawan Mela duty are seeking exemption due to health issues. The Civil Surgeon-cum-Chief Medical Officer has been instructed to set up a medical board. The board will assess the requests, and those previously exempted will need to present a health certificate. Subsequent exemption requests will be considered only after medical board certification. Those who do not submit a medical certificate will be subject to action.
