Each year, the Gadhimai festival, celebrated at Bariyarpur village near the Nepal-India border, draws thousands of devotees. Starting December 8, this five-yearly event has both supporters and critics, making it a subject of significant controversy. While it is a deeply rooted tradition, it has also earned the title of the world’s bloodiest festival due to the mass animal sacrifices involved.
The festival’s origins go back over 250 years to a dream of Bhagwan Chowdhary, the founder of the Gadhimai Temple. He believed the Hindu goddess Gadhimai sought blood in exchange for protection and prosperity. The sacrifices have been held since then, and during the festival, thousands of animals, including goats, pigs, buffaloes, and pigeons, are slaughtered as a way to appease the goddess.
Animal rights groups, such as PETA and the Humane Society International, have vehemently condemned the practice, calling it barbaric, inhumane, and a public health risk. Despite global outrage, many devotees argue that it is part of their cultural and religious heritage. Some activists’ efforts have led to legal action, including a 2014 ruling by India’s Supreme Court to prevent the transport of animals across the border for slaughter.
Though some temple authorities have called for reducing the practice, the tradition remains deeply embedded in the beliefs of the local community. The festival is a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict between tradition, faith, and modern ethical considerations.
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