Birbhum, West Bengal: On the occasion of the Bengali New Year (Poila Baisakh), the renowned Tarapith Temple witnessed a massive turnout of devotees—just as it does every year. Even before sunrise, devotees arriving from far and wide could be seen standing in long queues, holding baskets of offerings (containing flowers and *prasad*) for worship.
In Bengal, people celebrate the New Year in a special manner, with most individuals beginning their day with prayers and worship. This is precisely why Tarapith witnesses a massive congregation of devotees every year on the day of “Poila Baisakh.” This year, too, devotees stood in long queues since early morning, holding baskets of flowers and *prasad*, to catch a glimpse (*darshan*) of Goddess Tara. Alongside devotees arriving from distant regions, local merchants also visited the temple to seek the blessings of Goddess Tara. In accordance with tradition, Goddess Tara was given a ritual bath early in the morning, followed by the *Mangal Aarti*. Subsequently, following all prescribed rituals, the doors to the temple’s sanctum sanctorum were opened for the general public.
On this auspicious occasion, Dhruva Saha—the BJP candidate for the Rampurhat Assembly constituency—and Ashish Banerjee—the Trinamool Congress candidate—also offered prayers to Goddess Tara and prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the people of the state.
On Wednesday afternoon, a special *Bhog* (sacred food offering) will be presented to Goddess Tara. This offering will consist of rice, lentils (*dal*), five varieties of vegetables, five types of sweets, *pulao*, roasted *Shol* fish, and *Payas* (rice pudding).
In view of the massive crowds of devotees at Tarapith on the first day of the New Year, the temple committee has made special arrangements.
