The historic city of Ambala in Haryana is renowned not just for its colonial-era architecture and bustling traditional bazaars, but also for its deeply rooted spiritual traditions. At the heart of this cultural legacy is the historic Vaman Dwadashi Mela, a grand festival that has been celebrated continuously for approximately 125 years. This religious gathering holds a unique position in North India, as Ambala and Patiala in Punjab are the only two cities that host this traditional event. This year, the three-day religious extravaganza is scheduled to take place at the Old Grain Market in Ambala City from September 21 to September 23. The defining feature of this festival is the ceremonial procession of five sacred palanquins, known as hindolas, representing Lord Vaman, which will converge from various temples across the city.
The Holy Procession and Dedication
Sharing details about the upcoming event, Sanatan Dharma Sabha Ambala City President Naresh Aggarwal explained the historical importance of the festival. Organized by the Sanatan Dharma Sabha, the fair witnesses the arrival of five sacred hindolas from different temples to the Old Grain Market. Once there, they are carefully placed inside a beautifully decorated pavilion where thousands of devotees can pay their respects. On the opening day, September 21, former minister Aseem Goel will initiate the sacred procession from the Bada Thakurdwara Temple. Following tradition, he will personally carry the first palanquin on his shoulders to mark the beginning of the journey. As the procession winds through the historical marketplaces of Ambala City, it will be joined by four other palanquins coming from other local temples, eventually leading all five to their designated place at the Old Grain Market.
VVIP Guests and Cultural Evenings
Following the installation of the sacred hindolas on the first evening, a grand cultural and religious program is scheduled to take place. Devotees attending the evening event will experience a modern touch as flower petals are showered upon them using advanced drones. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will grace the occasion as the chief guest for the evening. Adding to the cultural vibrancy, popular Punjabi singer Gulab Sidhu is set to deliver a live musical performance. The second day of the festival, September 22, will kick off early in the morning at 10 AM. On this day, Krishan Bedi will attend as the chief guest, and devotees will be treated to a divine musical experience with devotional songs performed by international bhajan singer Gauramani.
The Grand Finale and Sacred Immersion
The final day of the celebrations on September 23 will witness a magnificent return procession. Before the march begins from the Old Grain Market, several prestigious brass bands will offer a ceremonial salute to the sacred hindolas. The grand procession will then travel through the busy streets and prominent bazaars of Ambala City before arriving back at the Thakurdwara Temple. This grand parade will feature spectacular musical performances from Jaipur's famous Vishnu Band and Agra's renowned Sudit Band. Other musical groups, including the Balaji Band, Kamal Band, Great Popular Band, Ravi Band, and Mahadev Band, will also accompany the procession. To enhance the visual appeal, specially designed religious tableaux have been brought in from Meerut. Upon reaching the Thakurdwara Temple, the sacred hindolas of Lord Vaman will be ritually dipped in the historic Navrang Rai pond. After this sacred purification ceremony, each palanquin will be returned to its respective temple for final installation.
