TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 5, 2025: The Gurudarshan Mela, held annually in Girodpuri – the birthplace and work place of Baba Guru Ghasidas – is drawing thousands of devotees from across India. Running from 4th to 6th March, the fair has become a symbol of faith and devotion. This year, extensive arrangements have been put in place, with the aim of enhancing the experience for pilgrims.
On the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, significant improvements have been made in the fair’s infrastructure and security. The CM announced an increase in the budget for the event from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, ensuring that the fair is organized on a grander scale. He also declared plans for a permanent shed to be constructed from the main entrance to the temple, further enhancing the convenience of the devotees.
The Chief Minister, during his visit to Guru Gaddi, prayed for the well-being of the people of the state and directed local authorities to improve facilities at the fair. Following this, the district administration swiftly took action, instructing the Public Works Department to begin preparations for the shed’s construction.
This year, the Gurudarshan Mela sees upgraded services across various sectors. The number of medical aid centers has expanded from 2 to 8, with ambulances doubling from 4 to 8. Free food services have been ramped up, now provided by 212 groups at 24 locations, compared to 175 groups at 20 locations last year. The drinking water system has also been improved, with the number of water tankers increasing from 8 to 18, and permanent tap connections rising from 110 to 195.
Security has been bolstered with an increase in police control rooms from 3 to 9, security personnel from 450 to 1150, and the addition of 36 CCTV cameras for real-time surveillance. Fire safety has been enhanced with 3 fire trucks deployed, up from 1 in previous years. Additionally, the electricity and lighting systems have been improved with more transformers and backup generators, ensuring the fair runs smoothly in case of power outages.
The sanitation services have been revamped, with the number of toilets increasing from 4 to 16 and the number of bathrooms rising from 6 to 10. The cleaning workforce has been boosted from 80 to 291 personnel, ensuring the fair remains clean and hygienic.
For the first time, the fair’s organizers have launched an official website, GiraudpuriMela.com. This online platform will provide devotees with important information regarding travel, parking, religious sites, and other essential services, further improving their experience.
The Chief Minister’s vision for the fair’s expansion and enhanced services ensures that the Gurudarshan Mela continues to be a center of faith, bringing comfort, safety, and spiritual fulfillment to thousands of pilgrims.
