Junagadh, Gujarat Despite the official suspension of the Lili Parikrama Junagadh due to unseasonal rains, tens of thousands of devotees have continued to pour into the holy city of Junagadh, demonstrating their unwavering faith in Girnari Bapu. Although the pilgrimage route has been closed for safety reasons, pilgrims are expressing their devotion through symbolic acts, including climbing the sacred Girnar mountain.
Faith Over Fear: Devotees Defy Weather Challenges
The Lili Parikrama Junagadh is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimages, drawing millions of devotees every year. Traditionally, it involves a 36-kilometer journey around the forested hills of Girnar, accompanied by devotional songs, prayers, and community service. However, this year’s unseasonal rains have washed away several parts of the route, turning the once spiritual path into a muddy, dangerous terrain.
Administrative authorities and local saints jointly decided to suspend the 2025 pilgrimage, prioritizing the safety of devotees. The roads within the Girnar forest were severely damaged, covered with thick mud, and rendered impassable. Officials confirmed that the suspension was necessary to prevent any accidents or health risks.
Tight Security and Restricted Entry
Authorities have sealed the Itva Gate, the traditional entry point to the Lili Parikrama route, deploying both police and forest officials to maintain order. Despite strict restrictions, large crowds continue to gather near the Bhavnath area, hoping that the route may reopen for at least a single day.
The usually bustling path, filled with chants of “Jay Girnari,” now stands silent. Yet, the spiritual energy remains intact — women’s groups can be seen singing hymns, praying for Girnari Maharaj’s blessings, and requesting authorities to reopen the path, even briefly.
Devotees Plead for At Least One Day of Parikrama
Many devotees have expressed disappointment over the closure but also deep understanding of the administration’s concern for safety. Punit Nayak, a devotee from Ahmedabad who has been attending for nine years, said,
“We understand the decision, but we hope the authorities allow us even one day to complete the Parikrama. If not four days, then at least one day — like offering a petal when the whole flower isn’t possible.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, describing the pilgrimage as a once-in-a-year opportunity to connect with the divine energy of Girnar. They believe that a symbolic day of Parikrama would fulfill their spiritual commitment for the year.
Pilgrims Turn to Girnar Mountain Instead
Several devotees have decided to channel their devotion differently this year. Instead of the circular Parikrama route, many are climbing the Girnar mountain itself — considered one of the most sacred peaks in India. For them, this act symbolizes completing the journey in spirit if not in form.
One pilgrim, who has attended for 16 consecutive years, shared,
“Even if the route is closed, our faith remains open. If we can’t walk the 36 km path, we’ll climb Girnar instead. Girnari Bapu will bless our effort.”
Women Devotees Lead with Faith and Prayer
Groups of women from Vadala and northern Gujarat have shown remarkable resilience. A women’s group leader said,
“Every year, over 25 of us come together to serve and walk the Parikrama. We sing hymns at every rest stop, and the 36 km passes without fatigue. This year, even though we can’t walk, our devotion continues through prayers and service.”
The women emphasized that their connection with Girnar transcends physical challenges — even a symbolic act of devotion holds spiritual meaning.
Service Organizations Hit Hard by Cancellation
The Lili Parikrama Junagadh is not only a religious event but also a massive humanitarian movement. Thousands of charitable organizations, food providers (Annakshetras), and small vendors depend on this annual event. The sudden suspension has deeply affected them.
Many service groups had already purchased tons of food grains, vegetables, and supplies for free meals and lodging for pilgrims. Now, with the cancellation, most are forced to return home disappointed.
Ramesh Vasaniya, a volunteer from Jetpur who has served pilgrims for 15 years, said,
“We bring food and groceries every year to feed thousands of devotees free of cost. This year, we had stocked everything, but since the Parikrama is closed, we’re returning with our supplies. If no devotees come, who will we serve?”
He added that although the decision is justified due to heavy rains, the emotional loss for volunteers is immense. “It feels like our year’s purpose has been taken away,” he said.
Economic and Spiritual Ripple Effect
The suspension has also impacted local businesses, vendors, and transport services in Junagadh. Hotels, guesthouses, and small shops that depend on the influx of pilgrims are reporting sharp losses. However, most residents support the decision, emphasizing safety over commerce.
For many, the Lili Parikrama is not just an event but an emotional anchor. It strengthens community ties, revives spiritual enthusiasm, and provides economic sustenance to thousands. The abrupt halt has, therefore, left both a spiritual and economic void.
Hope for a One-Day Pilgrimage
Despite the current restrictions, hope continues to flicker among the devotees. Many believe that the administration might consider opening the gates for a single symbolic day of Parikrama if weather conditions improve.
A devotee expressed this shared sentiment:
“We believe that even a single round or day of Parikrama brings divine blessings. Once you come to Girnar, your entire year goes well. We just want that one chance.”
Several saints and community leaders have also appealed to authorities to allow limited access, maintaining strict safety protocols. Discussions are reportedly ongoing between local officials and religious bodies.
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Faith Unshaken: The Spirit of Girnar Lives On
Even though the Lili Parikrama Junagadh has been suspended, the spiritual bond between devotees and Girnari Bapu remains unbroken. Pilgrims continue to arrive, offering prayers, climbing the mountain, and performing symbolic rituals.
The atmosphere in Junagadh reflects a rare blend of faith, patience, and hope. As one elderly devotee summarized:
“We have come here for years. Whether or not the path opens, we know that Girnari Bapu watches over us. Our faith is the real Parikrama.”
The Larger Lesson
The 2025 Lili Parikrama Junagadh serves as a reminder of the harmony between faith and responsibility. The government’s decision prioritizes safety, while devotees’ peaceful acceptance reflects the depth of their spiritual maturity.
While nature halted the physical journey, the emotional and devotional journey of millions continues — proving once again that true faith finds a way, even when roads do not.
Quick Facts: Lili Parikrama Junagadh
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Girnar Mountain, Junagadh, Gujarat, India |
| Distance | Approximately 36 kilometers |
| Duration | Traditionally 4 days |
| Main Attraction | Spiritual walk through Girnar forest, devotion to Girnari Bapu |
| Reason for 2025 Suspension | Heavy unseasonal rains damaging routes |
| Devotee Response | Massive turnout despite closure; symbolic climbs of Girnar |
| Administrative Measures | Entry gates sealed, police & forest security deployed |
| Impact | Economic losses to local vendors & service groups |
| Future Hopes | Possible one-day reopening if conditions improve |
Conclusion
The Lili Parikrama Junagadh continues to inspire millions with its message of unwavering faith and community devotion. Even amidst natural disruptions and administrative closures, the spiritual fire of Girnar remains alive — carried forward by every pilgrim who believes that where there is devotion, there is always a path.
