350-Year-Old Bhim Puja Draws Millions in Nandakumar, Purba Medinipur

• Nandakumar, Purba Medinipur, hosts a 350-year-old Bhim Puja and fair, attracting millions of devotees annually.
• The puja, a folk deity worship, originated in Tarageria village and is the sole traditional worship there.
• Childless couples make vows to Bhim Thakur for children, observing fasts and offering prayers upon wish fulfillment.
• Unique rituals include devotees bathing in a pond and performing 'dandi katan' (prostrating and rolling) to the temple.
• The 40-foot-tall Bhim Jiu idol and a 1 crore rupee temple are central to the 11-day fair, generating significant donations.

Why It Matters: Nandakumar's ancient Bhim Puja, a 350-year-old tradition, continues to draw millions with its unique rituals and faith.