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Regular electricity service has been extended for the first time to the Mudka (Manika Dham) area, a site of religious and tourist importance in Shuklaphanta Municipality–8. Devotees who were previously forced to worship in the dark during the evening can now participate in religious activities in a well-lit environment.

The Mahendranagar Distribution Center of the Nepal Electricity Authority began supplying electricity after installing 82 poles and transformers along a five-kilometer stretch from Mudka to Dharapani at a cost of approximately Rs 6.5 million. The authority stated that all work—including erecting poles, stringing wires, installing insulators, and setting up transformers—was completed through a contract process.

With the extension of electricity service, bulbs have been installed in the temple premises, the newly constructed Bhajanghar, and surrounding areas, making the area brighter. Locals say it was previously difficult to conduct puja, aarti, and other religious programs after dusk, but the environment has now become more comfortable.

Ramesh Bahadur Air, Chairman of Ward No. 9, said the extension of electricity has significantly eased the conduct of religious activities. “Earlier, devotees had to suffer due to darkness, but now the temple premises are well-lit,” he said.

According to Bharat Bahadur Air, former chairman of the Dham area, the availability of electricity now allows satsang, bhajan-kirtan, and other religious programs to be conducted systematically even at night. He added that the area has become more attractive with the installation of lights around the newly built Bhajanghar and the temple.

A traditional fair (jaat) is held annually on the ninth night of the bright half of Falgun and on the tenth day of the same month at Manika Dham, which is considered religiously and touristically significant. This year, thousands of devotees from Nepal and India are expected to attend the fair scheduled for Falgun 13 and 14. Due to the popular belief that visiting Baijnath Baba fulfills wishes, the Dham attracts large crowds of devotees.

With the expansion of electricity service, devotees attending this year’s fair at night will no longer have to endure darkness. Locals say the illuminated surroundings have made the Dham area more attractive. The development is expected to positively impact religious programs, fairs, and local businesses. With the twinkling lights, Manika Dham is now expected to emerge as a stronger destination not only for religious faith but also for tourism promotion.

Jalasarokar