Dakor:  The revered Ranchhodrayji Temple in Dakor is preparing for the grand celebration of the Holi (Phagani Poonam) festival on March 14th. The temple is expecting a massive influx of devotees, with an estimated 7 lakh people visiting over two days, March 13th and 14th.

Extended Darshan Timings and Preparations

To accommodate the large crowds, the temple authorities have extended the darshan (viewing) timings. On March 13th, the Mangala Aarti (morning prayer) will be held at 5:00 AM, and on March 14th, it will be at 4:00 AM.

The five-day Holi Phagani Poonam festival, which began on Amlaki Ekadashi, will culminate on the full moon day. Devotees from across Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, and neighboring states are expected to participate.

The temple and the local administration are making extensive preparations for the festival. The temple has been beautifully decorated with lights, creating a festive atmosphere.

Detailed Darshan Schedule

• March 13th (Holi Dahan):

  • Temple opens at 4:45 AM.
  • Mangala Aarti at 5:00 AM.
  • Darshan from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM.
  • Balbhog, Shringarbhog, and Gowalbhog (offerings) from 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM (darshan closed).
  • Shringar Aarti at 8:00 AM (darshan reopens).
  • Darshan from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM.
  • Rajbhog (lunch offering) from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM (darshan closed).
  • Rajbhog Aarti at 2:00 PM (darshan reopens).
  • Darshan from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
  • Bhagwan’s rest from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM (darshan closed).
  • Utthapan Aarti at 6:00 PM (darshan reopens).
  • Darshan from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
  • Bhagwan’s rest from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM (darshan closed).
  • Shayan Aarti at 8:15 PM (darshan reopens).
  • Shakhdi Bhog (night offering) followed by Bhagwan’s rest.

• March 14th (Phagani Poonam/Dholotsav):

  • Temple opens at 3:45 AM.
  • Mangala Aarti at 4:00 AM.
  • Darshan from 4:00 AM to 8:30 AM.
  • Balbhog, Shringarbhog, and Gowalbhog from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM (darshan closed).
  • Shringar Aarti at 9:00 AM.
  • Phuldolotsav (flower festival) with Bal Gopal Maharaj from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (darshan continues).
  • Darshan from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
  • Temple closed from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM (Rajbhog).
  • Rajbhog Aarti at 3:30 PM (darshan reopens).
  • Darshan until 4:30 PM.
  • Bhagwan’s rest from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM (darshan closed).
  • Utthapan Aarti at 5:15 PM (darshan reopens).
  • Nitya Kramanusar Shayanbhog, Shakhdi Bhog, followed by Bhagwan’s rest.

Festive Spirit and Security

Devotees express their joy by playing Holi with Lord Ranchhodrai, showering abir and gulal (colored powders) on the deity. The temple authorities have made arrangements to ensure smooth darshan for all visitors.

To prevent any untoward incidents and maintain law and order, a strong police presence will be deployed during the festival.

The atmosphere at Dakor is filled with excitement and devotion as the temple prepares to welcome the thousands of devotees who will participate in the Holi celebrations.