By: Dr Avi Verma

Devotion, spiritual fervor, and large-scale preparations are underway at Siddh Peeth Mahabali Sankat Mochan Shri Hanuman Mandir, Joshi Nagar Dham, Haibowal, as the temple prepares to celebrate its 22nd Foundation Day on May 27 with grand religious ceremonies, devotional music, and community service activities.

Temple management announced that thousands of devotees from Punjab and neighboring states are expected to attend the annual celebration, which has grown into one of the city’s major spiritual gatherings dedicated to Shri Balaji Maharaj.

Temple leadership, including president Aman Jain, chairman Rishi Jain, and vice president Anuj Madan, said the event reflects the unwavering faith devotees place in Shri Balaji Maharaj, whom they described as a divine source of strength and relief during difficult times.

According to organizers, the celebration will feature elaborate decorations, uninterrupted langar service, devotional singing, special offerings, and religious rituals. Renowned devotional singers, including Punjabi artist Roshan Prince and local bhajan singers, are expected to perform during the spiritual gathering.

A major attraction during the celebrations will be the temple’s illuminated complex and the widely revered giant idol of Shri Balaji Maharaj, which draws devotees throughout the year. Organizers stated that special arrangements are being made to ensure smooth crowd management and devotee convenience.

More than 300 volunteers and sevadars have been assigned responsibilities ranging from langar service and prasadam distribution to crowd control, water service, stage management, and religious offerings. Temple officials emphasized that discipline, humility, and respectful service toward devotees remain central to the event.

As part of the celebrations, 51 fortunate devotees will also receive silver images of Shri Balaji Maharaj through a special draw during the foundation day event. Devotees attending the function will have the opportunity to participate by submitting their names and contact details at the temple premises.

Over the past several days, temple representatives have conducted an extensive invitation campaign across Ludhiana, inviting religious leaders, political representatives, social workers, and prominent citizens to participate in the celebrations. Several community leaders praised the temple for promoting Sanatan Dharma, social harmony, and community service through its regular religious and charitable activities.

The organizers also paid tribute to late Ashok Jain, remembered as the inspirational force behind the temple’s growth and spiritual mission. Temple leaders said the annual foundation day continues to carry forward his vision of devotion, faith, and service to society.

Temple management noted that the Siddh Peeth has become widely known for devotees’ belief that sincere prayers and seven consecutive “chowkis” at the shrine help fulfill wishes and bring relief from hardships — a faith that continues to attract large numbers of worshippers every Tuesday.

The celebrations are expected to conclude with collective prayers, bhajans, and blessings for peace, prosperity, and community unity.