As winter fades and the icy veil of the Himalayas begins to lift, a sacred anticipation stirs in the heart of the devout. The spiritual call of Badrinath grows stronger, echoing through the ancient town of Joshimath. A week before the grand opening of the Badrinath shrine, the town comes alive with the revered Trimundiya Mela—a festival steeped in mythology, devotion, and divine protection. This sacred fair marks the commencement of the pilgrimage season, a time when thousands prepare to undertake the arduous journey to the revered abode of Lord Vishnu.
More than just a ritual, Trimundiya Mela is an invocation of divine protection. Held on a Tuesday or Saturday, the festival is dedicated to Trimundiya Veer, the celestial guardian of the pilgrimage. It is believed that his blessings ensure a safe passage for pilgrims braving the unpredictable terrain and extreme weather of the Himalayas. Trimundiya Veer is worshipped as the Saviour of Pilgrims, a fierce protector who wards off misfortunes and unseen perils lurking along the sacred trail to Badrinath.
The atmosphere in Joshimath on this day is nothing short of electrifying. The narrow lanes leading to Shri Narsingh Temple swell with devotees, their voices merging in a crescendo of devotional chants. The air is thick with the fragrance of incense, while the rhythmic beats of drums and ringing temple bells create an enchanting symphony of faith. The courtyard of Shri Narsingh Temple transforms into a spiritual arena where age-old traditions come to life, linking the present with a past deeply entrenched in devotion and divine intervention.
Trimundiya mela : The Mythology of Trimundiya Veer
As per ancient folklores, Trimundiya Veer was once a fierce three-headed demon who terrorized the villages of Bemru and Guneaw Math. The villagers, tormented by his insatiable hunger for human flesh, prayed fervently for deliverance. Their cries reached Goddess Durga, who, while journeying through the mountain villages, arrived in Bemru and was moved by their plight.
A fierce battle ensued between the Goddess and the demon. With divine might, Goddess Durga struck down two of Trimundiya’s heads. Defeated and humbled, the demon pleaded for mercy. Impressed by his courage, the Goddess spared his life on the condition that he would renounce his malevolent ways and vow to serve humanity instead. Trimundiya accepted her command and accompanied her to Joshimath, where he was appointed as the Guardian of Joshimath and Protector of Pilgrims.
To honor this divine decree, it was ordained that Trimundiya Veer would be worshipped once a year before the commencement of the Badrinath Yatra. On this sacred day, offerings of a goat, 40 kilograms of rice, 20 kilograms of jaggery, and water are made to him in gratitude for his protection. This day of devotion and remembrance came to be known as Trimundiya Mela.
Grand Celebrations of Trimundiya Mela
The Trimundiya Mela is a vibrant and grand affair that draws thousands of devotees to the sacred grounds of Shri Narsingh Temple. The fair begins with the ceremonial offering of Dhanpura or Hariyali, the newly germinated barley, which is presented alongside rice and jaggery to Trimundiya Veer. Huge crowds gather, with visitors arriving from various villages and distant regions, making it a historical and widely celebrated fair.
The ritual commences with the arrival of the Aalam—a sacred symbol of Goddess Durga—into the temple courtyard. The Aalam, adorned with flowers and Hariyali, embodies the divine powers of the Goddess. A Paswa, an individual who enters a trance and becomes possessed by a divine spirit, prepares and decorates the Aalam. The Aalam is first worshipped with great reverence before being carried in a grand procession to Narsingh Temple and Nav Durga Temple.
Following this, all the Paswas enter a divine trance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and devotional chants. It is during this moment that Trimundiya Veer manifests within his Paswa, accepting the offerings made by devotees. The sacrificial offering of one goat, 40 kilograms of rice, 20 kilograms of jaggery, and water is then carried out with elaborate rituals, signifying devotion, protection, and gratitude. The Paswa of Trimundiya Veer, in a deep trance, consumes all the offerings, including the goat, rice, and jaggery, in a dramatic and awe-inspiring act of divine acceptance. This extraordinary event is the main highlight of the Mela, drawing gasps of reverence and wonder from the assembled devotees.
Adding to the vibrancy of the festival is the performance of Dankhuri, a famous folk dance of Garhwal. Women dressed in traditional attire participate in this lively dance while singing Maangal folk songs, invoking prosperity and well-being for Joshimath and its people. The air is filled with the sound of drums and bells, as devotees celebrate the auspicious occasion with joy and reverence.
Teachings and Blessings: The Legacy of Trimundiya Veer
Trimundiya Mela is more than just a religious fair; it is a lesson in faith, resilience, and devotion. The festival imparts the message that even the darkest forces can be transformed through divine intervention and that faith has the power to overcome every obstacle.
For the thousands of pilgrims who stand on the brink of their sacred journey, this Mela serves as a reassurance—a divine blessing that they are not alone. Trimundiya Veer’s unseen presence guides them, shielding them from the unpredictable challenges of the Himalayan landscape and fortifying their spirit for the pilgrimage ahead.
Conclusion: A Festival of Faith and Gratitude
As the sun sets down and the last golden ray of the sun fall on the majestic mountain peak, the Mela draws to a close. Yet, the faith instilled in the hearts of devotees continues to shine brightly. Trimundiya Mela is not just an event; it is a living tradition, a sacred covenant between the divine and the faithful.
In the hallowed precincts of Shri Narsingh Temple, where mythology, devotion, and cultural heritage intertwine, the echoes of prayers and hymns linger long after the celebrations end. And as the mighty Himalayas stand tall, watching over the devout, the spirit of Trimundiya Veer remains ever-present—an eternal protector, a divine guardian, and an unwavering symbol of faith.
For more details and information you can contact us at