Where spiritual connection between deity and devotee is strengthened
Neeraj Rakwal
In the year 1982, the sacred idol of Durga Mata was stolen by smugglers from the temple premises, which were then open throughout the year for pilgrimage. After intervention by the district administration, subsequent search operations were initiated by the police and local people. Consequently, the smugglers were apprehended, and the idol was recovered from the Chenani Tehsil of district Udhampur. It was reinstalled in the temple on August 25th, 1982.Thus, every year, the Staphana Diwas has been celebrated in memory of this event by organizing the Kood Mela by the Management Committee of Durga Mata Mandir, Dedni.
DURGA MATA MANDIR is located in Marmat Ghallyan area of Doda District, in the village of Dedni of Khellani block, approximately 20 kms away from the District Headquarter Doda.
TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE: Although the architecture of this temple was not influenced by the Nagara Style of Temple Architecture, which was popular in northern India, it was primarily influenced by the geographical and climatic conditions of the location. Nevertheless, it shares some commonalities with it.
The entire temple structure is built on a stone platform with a staircase leading to it. The tallest tower, the Shikhara, is entirely made of steel sheets, chosen due to heavy snowfall conditions in the winters. At the top of the Shikhara, the Kalash is installed.Inside the temple, the ARDH MANDAP is in the front, serving as the entrance porch to the temple, adorned with hanging brass bells. Within the ARDH MANDAP, there is a MANDAP, the assembly hall for devotees to offer prayers. Within the Mandap, there is a GARBHGRIYA (Sanctum Sanctorum) where the idol of Durga Mata is installed.Outside the temple, a round PRADAKSHINA MARG (Ambulatory) is also built, holding religious significance.
The entire temple premises are surrounded by a park and boundary walls with two gates, one in the front and the other exactly at the back.
Outside the boundary wall, the temple is surrounded by vast meadows covered with lofty Fir and Deodar trees, offering a magical view to pilgrims and tourists. Within the meadows, two Sarovars (ponds) are also present, one sourced from a natural spring and the other artificially created for rainwater harvesting.
The Management Committee of Durga Mata Mandir, Dedni, organizes two fairs annually: the Baisakhi festival on April 13th and Sathapna diwas, also known as Kood Mela, on August 24th and 25th.
ABOUT SATHAPNA DIWAS: Sataphna diwas is a unique aspect of the celebrations at Dedni Mata Mandir. This ritual serves as a reminder of the temple’s enduring presence in the lives of the people and is believed to strengthen the spiritual connection between the deity and her devotees.
On the morning of August 24th, three different Trishool Bhaint Yatras start: one from Khellani via Shree and Saras, the second one from Paryote via Kalaya Village to Dedni , and the third one from the village of Humbal. All three yatras meet at Dedni Padri, 2 km before the temple, and together march towards the temple, arriving in the evening at 5 pm, where they are welcomed by the Pujari and devotees awaiting them.
Subsequently, devotees from different parts of district Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Jammu, and Udhampur arrive in the evening and take darshan of the Mata, with langar facilities available for the next two days. Jagrata is also organized by the management committee, in which devotees participate throughout the night. Facilities for overnight stays are also made available in the dormitories by the management committee.
The following day, the celebrations at Dedni Mata Mandir are deeply rooted in local culture, showcasing a splendid array of traditional music, dance, and art. Artisans and craftsmen from the region also play a crucial role in the fair. The temple complex transforms into a bustling marketplace where these skilled individuals display their exquisite handcrafted wares, including pottery, textiles, woollen blankets, and agricultural implements. This exchange of goods not only fosters economic growth but also preserves and passes down traditional craftsmanship from one generation to another.
After the traditional group dance, Dhakku, performed at 11 am, on this special occasion of Kood Mela, the festivities continue until 4 pm, after which devotees begin marching back to their villages, concluding the two-day Kood Mela.
This Sataphana Divas provides a much-needed respite from the monotony of daily life and serves as a platform for social bonding. Families and friends come together to share in the festivities, strengthening interpersonal relationships. These celebrations transcend age, caste, and creed, fostering a sense of unity and brotherhood within the community.
In addition to local residents, the influx of visitors during Kood Mela further promotes cultural exchange and harmony, as people from different backgrounds come together to revel in the joyous atmosphere.
Suggestions to the management committee:
The fair can produce a significant amount of waste, including plastic food containers and bags, and other single-use items. Proper waste management strategies, such as the use of dustbins and proper disposal, should be adopted.
There should be a proper registration system for all stalls and shops around the temple during the two-day fair.
Engage with local influencers such as vloggers, news channels, and NGOs to seek their support in promoting the fair among people from different parts of the state and country.
GOVERNMENT ROLE:
Drinking water: Permanent water supply is needed so that safe and reliable drinking water stations can be set up at strategic points throughout the tourist destination.
Toilet Facility: More public toilets need to be installed at key tourist locations. Additionally, ensuring proper waste management and regular cleaning will be essential to maintain hygiene.
Road infrastructure: The remaining 2 km of the half-done project of road connectivity up to the temple needs to be completed.
Cultural activities: Organize and promote cultural events and activities that showcase the local traditions, arts, music, and cuisine. This will give tourists an opportunity to experience and appreciate the unique cultural heritage of the destination.
Forest conservation: Implement sustainable forest management practices to conserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the destination.
In conclusion, it is essential to strike a balance between tourism development and the preservation of the site’s sanctity and authenticity. Sustainable tourism practices must be implemented to protect the environment, respect local customs, and promote responsible tourism behaviors. As we celebrate the allure of religious tourist destinations and the vivacity of local fairs and melas, let us remember that beyond the architectural wonders and festive gatherings, these places hold intangible treasures – a sense of belonging, a spiritual journey, and a shared cultural heritage. By cherishing and preserving these gems, we can pave the way for a more interconnected and enriching global experience, where faith, culture, and humanity intertw.
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