Chaliha Festival will begin from 13-Jul-2023

This is a 40 days fast observed by the Sindhi community to express their gratitude to Bhagwan Jhulelal Saeen (Isht Dev of Sindhis). Sindhis offer an Akho (a mix of raw rice, green cardamoms, sugar and a hint of turmeric) with Palav/Pryaer everyday by visiting any water body like a lake, river or a well (Kuaan/khooh). There are many rules to be followed by the fasting devotees during this period.

Some of the rules that needs to be followed by devotee while observing this fast

Eat Simple, Satvik food. No use of onions and garlic is allowed.
Any kind of non-veg food and alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Sleep on a separate bed or floor.
Fasting devotees can not cut the hair, beard, nails during the 40 days.
Do not consume white colored food like milk, rice or curds. One can add haldi/turmeric to rice and eat. Food with any tempering/tadka is not allowed
Do not wear leather articles.
Observer the Celibacy, Brahmchayra during the fasting period.
Avoid using soap, oil or any kind of perfumes/ makeup.Devote your body and soul to the Isht Dev.
Offer Akha with a prayer to a water body. Chaliha Sahib Mandir has a separate pond for offering the Akha.
If you’re visiting the Chaliha Sahib Mandir, you must do the darshan of Akhand Jyot & take Prasad.
Do not Lie, cheat or get angry. Remain calm & have trust in Jhulelal Sain.

On completion of 40 days fast Matki Mela is organised. One who has observed the fast can take Matki and go for Akhand Jyot Darshan & emersion of Matki in Jhulelal Sarovar at Chaliha Sahib Mandir, Ulhasnagar-5.

Subsequent day to Matki Mela is Palav / Prayer day. One can come and offer the prayers by themselves or ask the Bhagat to pray for him. You can offer some donation while doing so.

After the 40 day fast & Palav one can start the regular life & start shaving and cutting hair or nails.

Schedule of Events at Chaliha Sahib Mandir during the Festival