Dehradun: The annual hoisting of Shri Jhande Ji, regarded as a symbol of faith and devotion, will take place on March 8 this year, marking the beginning of the traditional fair. The event is held every year on the fifth day of Holi. Preparations will begin with the stitching of the sacred cloth (Gilaaf) on March 5, while the Nagar Parikrama is scheduled for March 10.
The fair schedule has been officially released. Fair Officer Vijay Gulati said the event will commence with the hoisting ceremony on March 8 and continue until March 27. As part of the traditional rituals, on February 25, Subodh Uniyal, a representative of Shri Darbar Sahib, will carry the Hukumnama signed by Shri Mahant Devendra Das Maharaj to Baragaon for the Punjab foot pilgrims. On February 27, the Shri Mahant will visit Arai Wala to welcome the arriving devotees.
On March 1, Shri Mahant Devendra Das Maharaj will enter Shri Darbar Sahib along with the foot pilgrims, after which the arrival of devotees will intensify. On March 5, along with the Gilaaf stitching ritual, the sacred flagpole will be brought from Bambeybagh to Shri Darbar Sahib. The eastern group of devotees will depart on March 7, and on March 9, devotees will offer prayers throughout the day.
The hoisting ceremony on March 8 will follow a detailed process. Between 8 am and 9 am, the existing flag will be lowered. After ritual bathing, the plain and velvet Gilaaf will be offered. Shri Mahant Devendra Das Maharaj will bless the devotees in the premises before the ceremonial Gilaaf is placed. The final hoisting of Shri Jhande Ji will take place between 4 pm and 5 pm.
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This year, Anil Kumar Goel, a resident of Park Road in Dehradun, will have the honour of offering the ceremonial Gilaaf. He said he had booked the opportunity nearly 22 years ago and considers it a blessing. He has previously offered the velvet Gilaaf as well. In 2025, the ceremonial Gilaaf was offered by two brothers from Punjab.
