Varanasi: For the first time, the prime two centres of Hindu devotion – Kashi & Mathura – are set to embrace each other this Rangbhari Ekadashi, on Friday. Colours and gulal from Kashi Vishwanath Temple (KVT) are headed to Vrindavan, while a troupe of folk artistes from Shri Krishna Janmasthan Temple will bring ‘raas’ and flower Holi vibes to KVT on Friday.Celebrated just a few days before Holi, Rangbhari Ekadashi marks the divine return of Lord Shiva to Kashi after his marriage to Goddess Parvati. The festival is also linked with Vishnu worship, making Rangbhari Ekadashi a unique blend of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. KVT CEO Vishwa Bhushan Mishra highlighted that Rangbhari Ekadashi holds a special place in both Kashi and Braj traditions. In Varanasi, people mark this day by thronging the KV temple with deity idols, with gulal flying everywhere. Amid dhol beats and mantras, the gift-laden vehicle arrived at Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi on Wednesday, carrying colours, gulal, clothes, fruits, flowers, toys, chocolates and sweets for Laddu Gopal. Kapil Sharma, Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan secretary, welcomed the gifts and said folk artistes will head to Kashi on Thursday with gifts. Ahead of Rangbhari Ekadashi, officials from the district admin, police, CRPF, NDRF, and temple authorities met on Tuesday evening to iron out security plans. Following discussions with the family of the former Mahant, Mishra said only 64 identified persons will be allowed to enter with their palanquin. The palanquin will be duly installed in the sanctum sanctorum according to tradition and customs.
