The banks of the Kamala River in Nepal came alive as thousands of devotees participated in the annual Bhoot Mela on Kartik Purnima. This mystical fair blends spiritual cleansing, ancestral worship, and shamanic traditions.
Sacred Ritual Baths and Cleansing
According to ancient beliefs, bathing in the Kamala River on Kartik Shukla Purnima purifies the body, wards off evil spirits, and alleviates afflictions. From the break of dawn, devotees took ritual dips, seeking spiritual purification.
Shamanic Ceremonies and Ancestral Worship
Shamans, or Dhamis, conducted elaborate rituals, swaying rhythmically to the beats of drums and cymbals. These ceremonies honor deities and ancestral spirits, with new shamans receiving blessings and mantras from their master shamans, solidifying their spiritual roles.
Devotees from Nepal and India
The fair attracts participants from across Nepal and neighboring Indian districts such as Madhubani and Darbhanga. Families prepare weeks in advance, fasting and performing rituals at their clan deity’s shrine before joining the festivities.
Mystical Practices in Mithila
Mithilanchal’s deep-rooted Tantrism traditions shine during this festival. Apprentice shamans, dressed in vibrant yellow attire, perform dramatic rituals, claiming divine connections after their sacred baths.
Purifying Homes and Spirits
Devotees collect Kamala River water to sprinkle around their homes, believed to purify and protect their living spaces from negativity and conflict.
The Bhoot Mela is not just a festival; it’s a vibrant showcase of Mithila’s rich spiritual heritage.