UP: Devotion defies harsh winter

Pilgrims in large numbers flood major shrines ahead of New Year

- BISWAJEET BANERJEE

The severe cold wave sweeping across Uttar Pradesh has failed to deter devotees, with major temples witnessing an unprecedented rush as the year draws to a close.

From Varanasi to Vrindavan and Ayodhya, thousands of pilgrims are braving the biting cold to offer prayers and seek divine blessings before welcoming the New Year, prompting authorities to enforce special crowd control and security measures.

Across the state, prominent religious centres including Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Ram Janmabhoomi and the temples of Mathura and Vrindavan are witnessing a continuous inflow of devotees. In response, the administration has strengthened arrangements for crowd regulation, traffic control and public safety to prevent any untoward incidents.