In a remarkable event that unfolded after more than three decades, devotees gathered in massive numbers at Vyasa ji ka Tehkhana beneath the Knowledge Seat (Gyanvapi) in Varanasi, following the auspicious Mangala Aarti at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri on March 8. The sacred darshan at Vyasaji ka Tehkhana, renowned as the seat of Sage Vyasa, was made accessible after an extensive wait, witnessing an overwhelming attendance of thousands of devotees.
The rare darshan at Vyasa ji ka Tehkhana, located beneath the Knowledge Seat, was last open to devotees three decades ago. The gate leading to Vyasaji Ka Tehkhana is situated along the exit path from the temple, providing an opportunity for devotees to witness the divine idols as they exit.
Devotees gathered to witness the divine murti and seek blessings, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere.
The journey inside the Vyasaji ka Tehkhana included a circumambulation of the sacred premises, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.
While thousands revelled in the spiritual fervour of Maha Shivaratri, special attention was given to the dilapidated state of Vyasaji ka Tehkhana. Notably, the occasion attracted a multitude of devotees associated with the ongoing legal battle related to the Gyanvapi case, including the female litigants of the Shringar Gauri case, lawyers, and supporters.
Speaking to the media, female devotees expressed their primary motive of seeking Baba Vishwanath’s blessings on Mahashivratri. They emphasized their hope for the early liberation of Adi Vishweshwar, who is currently confined in Vyasa Ji Tahkhane, awaiting the court’s decision.
Mahashivratri, a significant festival celebrating the divine union of Bhagwan Shiva and Mata Parvati, witnessed an overwhelming turnout of devotees seeking blessings at the Kashi Vishwanath Dham. Following the Mangala Aarti, devotees thronged in large numbers to witness the ceremonial Jalabhishek of Kashi Vishwanath. According to temple authorities, by 9 a.m., a staggering 388,006 devotees had already received darshan.
As the day unfolded with prayers, rituals, and divine interventions, the atmosphere in Varanasi remained charged with devotion and faith, marking Maha Shivaratri as an unforgettable day for the devotees and the city alike.
