Diggi Padyatra

Diggi Padyatra
A padyatra refers to a journey undertaken on foot. Padyatra’s have been known in India since the time of pre-Independence when Mahatma Gandhi undertook the Salt March in 1930. Initially, padyatra’s was a form of a march used by politicians and prominent figures to interact socially and closely in various towns and cities with every class of people. The Dandi March was a big success as Gandhiji was able to gather supporters from several towns and villages in order to support him and his agenda to revolt against the taxation policies administered by the British. This was also a non-violent protest as the protesters peacefully marched to get their point across to the British.

The Diggi Padyatra on the other hand is a religious padyatra and much different from the original padyatra. This padyatra begins from Tadkeshwar temple, Jaipur; heads to Moti Doongri Ganesh ji temple for paying respect, from there the devotees then reach Sanga Baba temple at Sanganer; and finally reach Madrampura where they rest for the night. On the second day the yatra crosses Renwal followed by crossing the Bandi River on the third day. On the fourth day it crosses Chausala following which it finally reaches the Lord Kalyan Ji temple at Diggi.

The Diggi Padyatra is a religious celebration by the followers of Lord Kalyan Ji who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple of Mord Kalyan Ji is located in Diggi Village in the Tonk District of Rajasthan, which is about 80 kms from Jaipur. This temple was built by King Digva almost 6000 years ago. It is believed that Lord Vishu enshrined himself in this temple as Kalayan Ji. The idol is made of white marble. It is also believed that Lord Kalyan Ji frees his devotees from their miseries.

People from all over the country participate in the padyatra, in order to gain blessings and some also to wash away their sins. Devotees who participate are often seen singing and dancing as they walk and complete the journey. Along with the long journey on foot the celebrations are considered to have purging effects to those in the padyatra. Apart from the padyatri’s, people from all over flock at the temple during this time of the year. The padyatra is a yearly affair and often sees lacs of devotees. In the year 2008 around 10 lac devotees participated in the march, where as in 2009 the count increased to 12 lacs.