Archive · 6 Nov 2025
214th Raas Utsav Begins in Cooch Behar with Prayer Wheel Ceremony
A special festival called Raas Utsav started at a temple in Cooch Behar.
The main leader, the district magistrate, kicked off the festival by turning a special prayer wheel.
This is a tradition that started long ago with the kings of Cooch Behar.
Lots of people came to the temple to pray and celebrate.
A big fair called Raas Mela will also happen soon, with rides and fun activities.
The prayer wheel is made every year by a Muslim artisan, showing how people of different backgrounds can work together.
The festival has been happening for over 200 years and moved to its current location after a temple was built.
The 214th Raas Utsav commenced at the Madanmohan temple in Cooch Behar on Wednesday.
District Magistrate Raju Mishra inaugurated the festival by performing the traditional turning of the Raas Chakra (prayer wheel).
The Raas Mela, managed by the Cooch Behar Municipality, is set to be inaugurated on Thursday.
The Raas Chakra this year was crafted by artisan Aminur Hossain, highlighting a tradition of social harmony.
Historical records indicate the first Raas Mela was initiated in 1812 and has been held at its current venue since 1917.
- Who
- District Magistrate Raju Mishra, Cooch Behar Municipality, artisan Aminur Hossain, retired professor Soukat Ali, King Harendranarayan
- What
- The 214th Raas Utsav began with a special worship and the turning of the Raas Chakra (prayer wheel), followed by the upcoming Raas Mela.
- When
- The Utsav began on Wednesday; the Raas Mela will be inaugurated on Thursday. The first Raas Mela was initiated in 1812.
- Where
- Madanmohan Temple, Cooch Behar, and later at MJN Stadium and Raasmela Ground.
- Why
- To celebrate the traditional Raas Utsav and associated Raas Mela, which is a significant cultural event in Cooch Behar with historical roots and a symbol of social harmony.
- Festival Name
- Raas Utsav and Raas Mela
- Edition
- 214th
- Inauguration Date (Utsav)
- Wednesday
- Inauguration Time (Utsav)
- 6:15 PM
- Key Ritual
- Turning of the Raas Chakra (prayer wheel)
- Temple
- Madanmohan Temple
- Fair Venue
- MJN Stadium and Raasmela Ground