The annual Bhadwa fair of folk deity Baba Ramdev is currently underway in full swing in Ramdevra, Jaisalmer. Millions of devotees from across the country and abroad are arriving here to pay their respects at the shrine and seek blessings. An essential ritual of this pilgrimage involves taking a holy dip in the sacred Ramsarovar pond. A massive crowd of worshippers gathers at this water body to cleanse themselves before heading for the main darshan. To manage this heavy influx and prevent any accidental drowning incidents, the fair administration has implemented stringent security arrangements.
Special security deployment at Ramsarovar
To ensure that no pilgrim drowns due to venturing into deep water while bathing, the fair administration deployed a specialized State Disaster Response Force unit starting August 20. Led by Head Constable Bhanwararam from the Jodhpur SDRF team, a contingent of 10 personnel regularly patrols the pond and surrounding ghats using boats. These officers continuously use loudspeakers to urge bathers to stay within safe shallow areas and strictly avoid venturing toward deep water.
Alert personnel save multiple lives
The rigorous monitoring conducted by SDRF personnel throughout the morning, afternoon, evening, and night has ensured that no major tragic drowning incident has occurred at the fair so far. Although accidental slips and carelessness led to over 10 individuals getting into deep trouble and facing drowning risks, the alert SDRF team acted promptly to pull all of them safely out of the water. Spectators and fellow pilgrims have extensively praised the swift actions of the rescue personnel.
Flooded waters and traditional prasad
Due to good rainfall, the sacred Ramsarovar pond currently holds about 12 to 13 feet of rainwater. Deep-rooted faith drives believers to bathe in the pond before visiting the shrine, as it is traditionally believed to wash away sins. Consequently, a massive crowd gathers around the ghats. After completing their baths, many pilgrims prepare the revered local dish dal bati churma near the ghats to share with their families. The presence of visitors from various states creates a vibrant display of unity in diversity.
Deployment to continue until September 26
The bustling crowds at the Ramsarovar pond continue to grow steadily. Prioritizing safety, this special SDRF team will continue rendering its services at the location until the conclusion of the fair on September 26. Meanwhile, the administration has urged all visitors to strictly follow safety guidelines and keep young children away from the water to ensure the religious festival concludes peacefully and securely.
