The historic town of Khatushyamji in Sikar district, Rajasthan, is fully prepared for the commencement of the annual Falgun Lakhi Mela. The world-renowned religious fair is scheduled to officially begin tomorrow, February 21, 2026, and will continue until February 28. Millions of devotees from various states across India and abroad are expected to visit the shrine during this eight-day period. The Shri Shyam Temple Committee and the district administration have finalized all security and logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims.
Grand Temple Decorations and Artistic Themes
To enhance the spiritual ambiance of the temple, a team of 120 specialized artisans from West Bengal has been commissioned for the decorations. These artisans have utilized their skills to recreate mythological scenes within the temple premises, while the decorations feature depictions of Lord Krishna and Radha Rani playing the flute, alongside representations of Goddess Kali and Balaji Maharaj. Notable highlights of this year's decor include a massive replica of the Airavat elephant and Lord Shiva's Damru, which have become major points of interest, while the final touches to these elaborate displays are being completed on a war footing ahead of the fair's opening.
New Darshan Protocols and VIP Entry Ban
In a significant move to manage the massive crowds, the Shri Shyam Temple Committee has overhauled the darshan system. According to Manvendra Singh Chauhan, Secretary of the Temple Committee, 14 separate queues have been established to distribute the crowd evenly and prevent congestion. The administration has strictly prohibited VIP darshan for the entire duration of the fair, ensuring that every devotee follows the same protocol. Due to the extensive queue management system and security cordons, pilgrims may have to walk approximately 23 kilometers to reach the main sanctum for the deity's glimpse.
QR Code Technology for Traffic and Parking
The Sikar district administration has introduced modern technological solutions to address traffic and parking challenges, while multiple parking zones have been designated across the town, and color-coded slips will be issued based on the type of vehicle. Each slip features a unique QR code that, when scanned, provides real-time navigation to the specific parking location. This initiative aims to minimize traffic congestion and assist devotees arriving from other states in finding their designated parking spots without difficulty.
Comprehensive Security and Administrative Oversight
Security has been tightened across the entire mela area, with a heavy deployment of police personnel. The District Collector, Superintendent of Police, and the Mela Magistrate are personally monitoring the arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents. CCTV surveillance and drone monitoring are being used to keep a close watch on the crowd density. On top of that, medical teams and water supply units have been stationed along the pilgrimage route to assist devotees during their long wait in the queues.