Thousands Gather for Annual Marian Festival at Kanjabaida Shrine In Khandwa, MP

Khandwa, February 25, 2026 — A profound expression of Marian devotion marked the annual festival at the Kanjabaida Marian Shrine in the Diocese of Khandwa, drawing more than 10,000 faithful from Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring regions. Bishops, priests, and religious sisters joined the large assembly, making the celebration one of the most significant pilgrimages of the diocese.

The festivities followed days of spiritual preparation, with Rosary prayers, Novenas, and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist from February 13 to 21. A three-day healing retreat held from February 19 to 21 witnessed strong participation as devotees sought prayerful support for physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Festival observances began with a Rosary procession that led pilgrims in prayerful witness to the shrine. The day also saw the inauguration of an exhibition featuring relics of 500 saints of the Catholic Church, alongside the Jeevan Raksha exhibition, both of which drew steady attention from the faithful.

The solemn Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop Peter Rumal Kharadi of Jhabua, in the presence of Bishop Malcolm Sequeira of Amravati, Bishop Augustine Madathikunne, and Bishop Mar Jose Porunnedom of Mananthavady, along with nearly 70 priests.

In his homily, Bishop Malcolm Sequeira reflected on Marian devotion, reminding the faithful of the spiritual motherhood of Mary. “God gave us not one but two mothers,” he said, “one on earth who nurtures us, and our heavenly Mother Mary, who guides, prays for, and intercedes on our behalf.”

Recalling the shrine’s origins during a past epidemic, he described it as a place of healing, peace, and hope, sustained through the enduring faith of the people across generations.

Eucharistic adoration and a healing prayer service followed the Mass, led by Fr. Ashok Alexander of Bareilly and his team. The shrine continues to attract pilgrims throughout the year, remaining a vibrant spiritual centre for Marian devotion and prayer in the region.