The famous Baba Khatu Shyam fair begins in Rajasthan’s Sikar on Friday with ‘darshan’ from 5 p.m. onwards. The fair, which will continue till March 11, is expected to attract lakhs of devotees from across the country. Special security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth experience for visitors. VIP darshan is not available this time, banners and signs taller than eight feet not allowed, perfumes in glass bottles are not permitted, small and large DJs are completely banned in the fair premises, and drums cannot be taken beyond the Toran Gate. The Baba Shyam’s court has been decorated with 65 varieties of flowers sourced from eight countries. The temple premises feature 20 unique floral species, including Hydenia, Pinonopsis, Imposia, Dishbird, Red Berry, and Orchid from Holland, South Africa, Colombia, New Zealand, China, Italy, and Bangkok. Pilgrims will cover an 8-kilometre journey before reaching Baba’s darbar. Sixteen emergency gates have been installed to manage the crowd in special situations. A separate entry line has been set up 250 meters from the temple near Lala Mangeram Dharamshala for elderly and disabled devotees. Wheelchair users will be allowed direct access through this dedicated passage. One-way movement will be enforced for smooth entry and exit.
