Despite the rapid advancement of technology and artificial intelligence (AI), where answers to every question are just a click away, the timeless tradition of astrology continues to captivate and influence people’s lives in unexpected ways. In Banswara, Rajasthan, a unique tradition that has persisted for 135 years brings together thousands of people every year, defying the modernity of the digital age. The Chopra Vachan—an astrological calendar that predicts the future for the coming year—remains as relevant today as it was in 1890 when it was first introduced. The astonishing devotion of the people to this tradition and the ritualistic gathering of lakhs of devotees is nothing short of a marvel.
At the heart of this tradition is the Chopra Vachan, an annual event held on Makar Sankranti, the day when the sun transitions into the zodiac sign Capricorn. This day, celebrated widely in India, marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. For the people of Banswara, it is a day to gather and listen to astrological predictions made by the Pandya family, whose ancestors established the Chopra tradition over a century ago. The predictions are based on detailed astrological calculations, involving the movements of planets and constellations, and offer insights into everything from weather patterns to agricultural trends and political developments.
The Chopra, in essence, is a comprehensive astrological calendar that is meticulously prepared by studying Panchangs (Hindu almanacs) and astrological charts. These charts are created by examining the positions of celestial bodies during a specific time frame, from Devuthani Ekadashi to Makar Sankranti. The predictions drawn from these observations are said to have a profound impact on the community, guiding their agricultural practices, daily lives, and even social interactions.
The origins of the Chopra Vachan lie in the year 1890 when Pandit Daulatram Pandya, a learned astrologer from Bhungra village in Banswara, first introduced the tradition. With his keen understanding of the stars and planets, Pandit Daulatram’s predictions became a source of immense trust and reliance for the local community. His ability to foresee the future and offer guidance on matters such as weather conditions, agricultural yields, and social developments earned him great respect.
Pandit Daulatram Pandya’s legacy was passed down to his son, Pandit Geferlal Pandya, who carried on the practice with the same dedication. Upon his passing in 1967, his son Pandit Prakashchandra Pandya took over the responsibility of maintaining this sacred tradition. Since 2012, Pandit Dakshesh Pandya, the great-grandson of Pandit Daulatram, has continued this revered family tradition, ensuring that the Chopra Vachan remains a vibrant part of Banswara’s cultural fabric.
The fact that the tradition has been passed down seamlessly for over 135 years speaks volumes about its importance in the lives of the people. Pandit Dakshesh Pandya, who now leads the Chopra Vachan event, points out that many of the predictions made through the Chopra have proven to be remarkably accurate over the years. This accuracy has helped solidify the community’s unwavering belief in the astrological predictions, making the Chopra a central element of their lives.
The creation of the Chopra is a meticulous and time-consuming process that begins months before the Makar Sankranti festival. From Devuthani Ekadashi (which usually falls in November) until the day of Makar Sankranti, the astrologer—usually from the Pandya family—embarks on an in-depth study of various Panchangs and astrological texts. During this period, the astrologer analyzes the movement of celestial bodies, including the sun, moon, planets, and stars. Using this data, the astrologer begins preparing the Chopra, an astrological calendar that encompasses predictions for the entire coming year.
Each year’s Chopra is unique, as it reflects the distinct astrological alignments that will influence the events of the upcoming year. These predictions are far-reaching, covering a wide array of topics—from local and national politics to weather forecasts, agricultural trends, and even social dynamics. The astrologer not only uses calculations but also interprets ancient texts, inherited knowledge, and intuitive wisdom accumulated over generations.
The finished Chopra is then read aloud in a grand ceremony on Makar Sankranti, where thousands of people gather to listen to the predictions. The audience consists of people from Rajasthan as well as neighboring states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The reading of the Chopra serves as a community ritual, uniting people in a shared experience of faith, anticipation, and reflection.
While science and technology have made significant advancements in the modern era, the continued relevance of the Chopra Vachan offers a fascinating insight into the enduring role of astrology in people’s lives. Despite the overwhelming influence of technology, astrology still holds a place of reverence in many communities. The predictions made through the Chopra are not seen as mere conjecture but as an integral part of people’s decision-making processes.
Pandit Dakshesh Pandya acknowledges that while many people rely on scientific methods today, astrology continues to offer a sense of certainty and guidance. He emphasizes that even scientists are increasingly recognizing the influence of celestial movements on life on Earth. According to him, the alignment of planets and stars plays a critical role in shaping events on a global scale, and this is something that cannot be dismissed.
The Chopra tradition serves as a powerful reminder that faith, culture, and spirituality continue to shape the lives of millions, even in the face of modern challenges. The people of Banswara, many of whom are farmers, rely heavily on the predictions for guidance on agricultural matters, including when to sow crops and when to expect rainfall. The Chopra helps them align their agricultural activities with the natural cycles, allowing them to make informed decisions that could have significant implications for their livelihood.
Makar Sankranti, the festival on which the Chopra Vachan is celebrated, is one of the most important Hindu festivals. It marks the sun’s entry into Capricorn and is associated with the harvest season. The festival is celebrated in different parts of India by various names—Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Maghi in Punjab. However, in Banswara, it is the Chopra Vachan that takes center stage, adding a unique dimension to the celebrations.
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