Moheshkhali's Adinath fair to begin tomorrow

The traditional Adinath fair and the holy Shri Shri Shiv Chaturdashi Puja will begin tomorrow (15 February) at the historic Adinath Temple in Moheshkhali Upazila of Cox's Bazar.

The annual religious gathering takes place at the foothills of Mainak Hill, drawing thousands of devotees from the Hindu community.

However, the fair is not limited to the Sanatan community alone; people from different religious and cultural backgrounds, both at home and abroad, also participate in the event.

Known as the "Adinath Fair," the centuries-old tradition, which has been observed for more than 200 years, is observed with deep religious devotion and festivity. The occasion marks Shiv Chaturdashi, observed on the fourteenth day of the waning moon in the month of Falgun, when devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva through prayer and worship.

Each year, pilgrims and tourists from remote parts of Bangladesh, as well as neighbouring countries including India, Nepal and Bhutan, gather at the temple to take part in the week-long celebrations.

Devotees and visitors have already begun arriving from various parts of the country and abroad. The hilltop temple area has become vibrant with the footsteps of pilgrims, while numerous stalls offering a variety of goods have been set up as part of the fair.

Ratan Kanti Dey, general secretary of Shri Shri Shiv Chaturdashi Puja and Fair Committee, told The Business Standard that like previous years, the event will be organised for seven days.

"Adequate accommodation facilities have been arranged for devotees and visitors. Various types of shops have been set up for the fair," he said.

Moheshkhali Police Station Officer-in-charge Md Mujibur Rahman said under the guidance of the superintendent of police, a special police team will remain on constant patrol to ensure the fair is held peacefully.

"The administration has taken maximum security measures to ensure the safety of devotees, visitors, and well-wishers attending the fair," he added.