There is no celebration like this in the three worlds.

Witnessing the divine procession of the embodied form of the Supreme Lord at sunrise on Kartik Purnima ignites a longing to see it again each year. Adorned with a crown of various flowers, dressed in yellow garments, wearing Rudraksha beads on the wrists, arms, and neck, covered in holy ash, and holding sacred flames in both hands—the procession embodies the very form of the Supreme.

Chanting the name of Lord Mahankaleshwar dispels all negativities such as desire and anger. Just one sight of Shiva brings spiritual benefits, wealth, purpose, and liberation. If the soul receives Lord Shiva’s grace, it is freed from the cycle of birth and death. The glory of Lord Mahankaleshwar in Sasur is profound, and this festival is unmatched. Devotees from the region gather for the five-day Mahankaleshwar Yatra festival, which begins on Kartik Purnima, with the main highlight being the grand procession at sunrise.

Seeing the divine form of the Supreme Lord in this procession just once fills devotees with a longing to witness it every year. Thus, no one who attends once ever misses it again. Adorned with a crown of flowers, wearing yellow garments, Rudraksha beads, holy ash, and carrying sacred flames, the divine figure is accompanied by followers, flags, the flame of ral, the sound of conch shells, and auspicious hymns as it circles the temple, marking the beginning of the festival. Prayers and offerings are then brought to the temple with great festivity, and the village youth present traditional performances. As the evening draws near, the procession resumes with more bhajans and kirtans. The festival committee also arranges various entertainment events for the visitors.

This five-day festival concludes with a grand feast. This much-awaited event, cherished by the women, children, and wrestlers of the village, is an opportunity to reconnect with friends and family. The Mahankaleshwar Yatra Festival, famous in the region, brings joy and inspiration for the coming year. Devotion to Lord Mahankaleshwar illuminates the mind, honors the ancestors, calms the heart, and removes hardships. Living with Shiv-Tattva (the essence of Shiva) can help us navigate the world wisely. Even creatures of opposing nature reside harmoniously with Lord Shiva, and witnessing Mahankaleshwar fills one's life with purpose and blessings.

In the cultural lexicon of India, Sasur holds a significant place.

Sasur village in Barshi Taluka, Solapur district, has a rich and ancient history. This is evidenced by the village’s mention in the Encyclopedia of Indian Culture, curated by the Department of History and Culture of Maharashtra. The fourth volume of the encyclopedia, spanning ten volumes, describes the glory of Sasur village on page 776.

Sasur, located about 15 miles from Barshi in Solapur district, sits near a river named Nagzhari. By this river stands an ancient Shiva temple dedicated to Mahankaleshwar, known to cure snake bites—a testament to the deity's living presence. On Kartik Purnima, a grand festival is held for this deity. Interestingly, the village has no wells, and all attempts to dig one have reportedly resulted in adverse events, a tale passed down through generations. The Mahankaleshwar temple thus stands as the village’s chief shrine.

Devotees from surrounding areas gather at the Mahankaleshwar temple during the five-day festival, and the main highlight, the grand procession, takes place at sunrise on Kartik Purnima. Once seen, the sacred form of the Supreme Lord in the procession stays in the hearts of the devotees, compelling them to return each year. With flowers, yellow attire, Rudraksha beads, holy ash, and carrying sacred flames, the divine figure is followed by flag-bearers and the sounds of conch shells, hymns, and a vibrant display of energy as it circles the temple. On the second day, traditional wrestling matches continue to be a major attraction for the community.

The wrestling matches, a prominent draw for local wrestlers, have a long-standing tradition. This five-day festival concludes with a grand gathering that rekindles old ties and gives hope for the coming year. Celebrated by all with great enthusiasm, the Mahankaleshwar Yatra Festival is renowned throughout the region.