A remarkable display of devotion and faith unfolded at the renowned Kotri Charbhuja Nath, also known as Kotri Shyam temple premises in Mewar, Bhilwara, on the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras. A massive earthen Maha Diya measuring 11.25 feet in width was ceremoniously lit following proper rituals and Vedic chanting. The most striking feature of this unique festival of lights is that instead of relying on a single source, people from the entire village come together with deep devotion, bringing ghee from their respective homes to fuel the gigantic flame.
Construction and Craftsmanship of the Giant Lamp
The 11.25-foot Maha Diya was carefully crafted by Gopal Gadari, a well-known sculptor from Bhagwanpura. Constructing this massive structure required approximately 2100 clay bricks, one trolley of yellow soil, and pure cow dung. The women of the village applied a fine plaster of clay and cow dung to give the lamp its final shape, adorning it with captivating artwork. Alongside the primary lamp, four smaller diyas measuring 21 inches and 11 inches were also created. Massive cotton wicks were placed in these lamps, and the grand flame was lit in the august presence of saints and sages.
A Tradition Begun in 2018 Inspired by Ayodhya
The tradition of lighting lamps in Kotri originated in 2018 with a modest 5-foot lamp. Inspired by the grand lamp-lighting traditions of Ayodhya, this initiative has now evolved into a defining religious identity for Kotri. Over the successive years, the scale of the event expanded steadily, ultimately transforming into the expansive 11.25-foot wide Maha Diya seen today. This growth reflects the deepening involvement and enthusiasm of the local community over multiple years.
Symbol of Collective Participation and Akhand Jyoti
This religious ritual does not belong to any single individual but stands as a powerful symbol of collective participation and public cooperation from the entire village. Thousands of devotees travel from Kotri and dozens of surrounding villages to reach the temple, offering ghee and oil to the lamp while praying for peace and prosperity. Blessed by the presence of revered saints, this unbroken flame, known as Akhand Jyoti, continues to illuminate the temple grounds uninterrupted until Choti Diwali, also observed as Roop Chaudas.
