Begusarai: The two-day Simaria Festival kicked off on the banks of the Ganga in Begusarai with a grand Dev Deepawali celebration. Union Minister Giriraj Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, Revenue Minister Dilip Jaiswal, and other dignitaries inaugurated the event. The evening showcased a vibrant display of cultural heritage, including a laser show, devotional music, and the lighting of 30,000 lamps along the riverfront.
Anita Kumari’s team presented a stunning depiction of Maa Kali’s Raudra Roop, while Apoorva Priyadarshi’s soulful Bhajan recital captivated the audience. Speaking at the event, Giriraj Singh highlighted the spiritual significance of the Ganga, describing it as a source of welfare and consciousness. Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha shared plans to develop Simaria into a hub for religious tourism and cultural heritage.
Revenue Minister Dilip Jaiswal announced an annual allocation of ₹50 lakh from local revenue for Simaria’s development. He also pledged to exempt taxes on vehicles, including Hearses, travelling to the site starting from the next financial year. Jaiswal outlined ambitious plans to transform Simaria into a centre of Sanatan culture, including the creation of a canal system inspired by Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri.
Since 2011, the festival, organised by the Kumbh Seva Samiti, has played a pivotal role in reviving Simaria’s cultural heritage. This year’s event saw participation from District Magistrate Tushar Singla, Superintendent of Police Manish, officials, Kalpvasis, and local residents, symbolising the unity of devotion, heritage, and progress in Bihar.
