The 'Bhooton ka Mela,' in Malajpur is unlike anything people might have imagined. The Malajpur Ghost Fair in Madhya Pradesh takes place annually at the Malajpur temple in the Betul district. While ghost fairs are also held in Nepal and Uttar Pradesh, the Malajpur one is the world's oldest, with a 400-year history.
Malajpur is a village near Chicholi, approximately 20 minutes from Bhopal, the state capital of Madhya Pradesh. This intriguing and mysterious fair draws thousands of people who are trying to rid themselves of negative spirits.
The fair begins on Magha Purnima and lasts three weeks during the Magh month, attracting thousands of curious visitors and pilgrims to the Malajpur temple. It takes place at the samadhi sthal (final resting place) of a saint named Baba Deoji Maharaj, who was a disciple of Guru Nana. He traveled across various places helping people get rid of negative energies and possessions. After he passed away, his followers established a temple at his final resting place, which is now known as Malajpur temple. According to local narratives, Baba Deoji was a spiritual figure with supernatural abilities, including the power to cure people possessed by evil spirits. Over time, this place has become a pilgrimage center for those seeking freedom from paranormal disturbances.
The extraordinary ceremonies performed by the temple priests are considered the primary attraction of the Malajpur Fair. These priests, believed to be descendants of Baba Deoji, perform rituals, chant mantras, and use holy water to drive away evil spirits. Those believed to be cursed are often seen resisting the rituals—crying or laughing uncontrollably, speaking gibberish, and rolling on the ground.
According to locals, there are banyan trees located on the temple premises where affected people are tied. These trees serve as a place where spirits are bound and their effects neutralized. The banyan trees play a major role as the spirits reportedly become trapped within the trees themselves, which is why locals stay away from them, fearing that spirits might latch onto passersby.
Once all rituals are completed, affected people are said to be freed from these unnatural disturbances.
There's also a psychological aspect to the Malajpur Ghost Fair. Many psychologists argue that people who visit this fair to escape negative energies might actually be mental health patients suffering from illnesses such as dissociative identity disorder or severe stress.
Experts believe that the rituals trigger collective healing that proves helpful for people in need. Additionally, some suggest that people dealing with anxiety and stress find relief in the sense of divine connection experienced at the fair. Despite varying opinions surrounding the ghost fair, it continues to be a relevant religious event.
The Malajpur Ghost Fair is not solely about rituals; it also serves as an important cultural event where vendors from far and wide set up stalls in the village. The fair features music and dance performances, along with stories of Baba Deoji recited by locals. It attracts journalists and researchers who visit to experience this mysterious and intriguing festival that showcases India's deep-rooted heritage and culture.
Visitors should keep several things in mind: respect local beliefs, maintain safety amidst the large crowds that can become chaotic, and avoid getting too close to those undergoing rituals, as they might act unpredictably. Most importantly, everyone who visits should respect this centuries-old tradition, even if it seems unreal or unbelievable.
A visit to the Malajpur Ghost Fair offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience as one of India's most mysterious and unique traditions. Every year, millions of people come to rid themselves of troubling evil spirits. The Malajpur temple is a must-visit for those interested in learning about different traditions and cultures, and who seek new adventures.
Comments