The ramparts of Junagarh Fort witnessed a vibrant revival of Bikaner's royal traditions dating back over 500 years on Monday evening. Amidst the sounds of folk music echoing from brass bands, richly adorned camels, royal insignia, and a protective cordon of armed guards, the idol of Teej Mata stepped out of the fort wearing exquisite ornaments, filling the entire atmosphere with deep devotion. The occasion was the traditional royal procession of Teej Mata organized on the auspicious festival of Kajli Teej.
As evening descended, the procession departed from the main gate of the fort, made its way to Sadul Circle, and eventually returned to Junagarh. Along the entire route, devotees caught glimpses of Teej Mata and prayed for the peace and prosperity of their households. Women and children showed particular enthusiasm for the procession. Eager to catch even a glimpse of Teej Mata, large numbers of residents lined both sides of the road all the way from Junagarh to Sadul Circle. The royal procession not only displayed Bikaner's rich historical heritage but also introduced the younger generation to the city's deeply rooted folk traditions.
Royal Worship and Traditional Pageantry
Before the royal procession commenced, royal priest Gangadhar Vyas performed the ritualistic worship of Teej Mata inside Junagarh Fort following strict traditional procedures. Following the prayers, the idol of Teej Mata was adorned with valuable jewelry and traditional makeup before being seated in a palanquin. The procession then set off in accordance with royal customs, accompanied by royal insignia, decorated camels, a band, and heavily armed security personnel. Artists participating in the procession presented a captivating glimpse of Rajasthani folk culture. Women dressed in traditional attire performed folk dances to traditional melodies. Meanwhile, devotional hymns and folk tunes played by the band created a deeply devotional atmosphere. Members of the former royal family, wearing multicolored turbans, also participated in the procession. As the royal entourage passed through, spectators recorded the moments using their mobile phones.
Tight Security and a 500-Year-Old Heritage
Crowds gathered at various spots along the route from Junagarh Fort to Sadul Circle to witness Teej Mata. Many families accompanied by children came out to observe this historical tradition. In view of the massive turnout, police authorities made strict security arrangements. Police personnel were deployed along the procession route to control traffic and maintain order. The procession safely navigated its designated path before returning to Junagarh Fort. Royal priest Gangadhar Vyas noted that the royal procession of Teej Mata is an ancient princely tradition of Bikaner that has continued for over 500 years. Since the time of the royal family, Teej Mata has been given special adornments and taken on a city tour with a royal entourage, a custom maintained today with the same devotion and royal dignity. According to local belief, catching a glimpse of Teej Mata brings happiness and prosperity to the family, with married women praying for the long life of their husbands and family well-being. Women observed fasts throughout the day and broke them by consuming traditional sattu after completing their evening prayers.
