Rajganj, 11th January: In a unique blend of devotion and festivity during the picnic season, devotees in Rajganj organised a special picnic with ‘Gopal’ on the banks of the Sahu River. The distinctive event was arranged by the Bhutkihat Radha Gobinda Temple and drew wide participation from devotees.
As winter marks the peak picnic season, popular picnic spots across the district are witnessing large crowds. Adding a spiritual dimension to the celebrations, devotees in Rajganj ensured that the deity was also part of the seasonal outing, presenting a rare and heartwarming sight.
The picnic was held in the Banevasha area, a few kilometres away from the temple. Gopal, along with Radha Madhab, Jagannath and other deities, was taken in a balloon-decorated toto (e-rickshaw) while devotees performed kirtan along the way to the riverbank.
More than a hundred devotees took part in the picnic. The morning refreshment included pasta, followed by a traditional meal of rice, dal and a variety of vegetables. The food was first offered to Gopal as bhog, after which the prasad was distributed among the devotees.
Shukdeb Das Brahmachari of the Bhutkihat Radha Gobinda Temple said that such forest picnics with ‘Gopal’ have been organised during the winter season for several years, and the tradition was continued this year as well. The day-long event unfolded in a festive atmosphere marked by devotion and joy.