Prayagraj: In Sangam city, the most unique and spine-tingling spectacle of Dussehra and Ramlila is the historic ‘Kali Prakatya’ (manifestation of Goddess Kali) and the ‘Kali Swang’ (enactment) of Daraganj, believed to have begun around 1913–1914 and continued uninterrupted for over 103 years.From Monday, the Daraganj Kali Swang, the centuries-old traditional night procession and performance held during Navratri, is all set to be taken out on the streets of the city.Convener of the programme Suneel Nishad told TOI, “On Monday, it will be organised in Alopibagh and will be held from Oct 13 to 16 in Daraganj locality.”He adds, “This is not merely a tableau, but an act of worshipping the living divine power.”Nishad pointed out that the artist who embodies Goddess Kali is no ordinary performer. He must observe rigorous penance, celibacy, a satvic diet, and strict self-discipline throughout the year. For the 15 days leading up to the manifestation, hours are dedicated daily to intense rehearsals and spiritual practice. Once the artist assumes the form of the Goddess, he is revered as the living incarnation of Kali.During the procession, the artist dons heavy weaponry, a massive crown, a sword, a trident, a garland of skulls known as mundmala, and jewellery, collectively weighing between 18 and 20 kg. The sight of the artist—with a ‘khapr’ (cap), wearing a garland of human skulls and divine makeup—is awe-inspiring and sends shivers down the spines of even the bravest onlookers.The procession of Goddess Kali, which traverses the areas of Daraganj, Alopibagh, and Bairhana, covers approximately 18 to 20 km on foot. The journey commences after paying obeisance at the holy feet of Lord Shri Veni Madhav. Amid rhythmic beats of the ‘nagaada’ and ‘dhol’ and the resounding blasts of conch shells, the deity grants darshan to her devotees.Hundreds of pilgrims participate in the procession, which continues throughout the night. Moreover, there is another belief associated with this special worship that adds an element of mystery. Priests have offered blood to the Mother Goddess by pricking their fingers for centuries as a symbol of Shakti puja, but now, it is performed only symbolically.The fame of the Kali procession in Daraganj has now reached international shores. On learning of this unique, vibrant and extraordinary spectacle, a group of tourists from France visited Daraganj specifically for the event’s preparations last week. The team spent hours capturing the manifestation on camera and described the deity as the “Living Goddess of India.” Many foreign researchers have also visited the site in the past.
