KATHMANDU, Jan 29: Former King Gyanendra Shah is visiting Gorakhpur, India, on Thursday. During his visit, he will offer prayers at the Gorakhnath Temple and perform a special puja.
Currently in Bhairahawa-- a town bordering with India, former King Shah will depart for Gorakhpur from there, according to his Personal Secretariat.
Why is former King Gyanendra visiting Bhutan?
The former king is also expected to meet Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during his visit. Indian media have reported that preparations are underway for the meeting.
It is a long-standing tradition for Shah kings to offer khichdi, a dish made of rice and lentils cooked together, often with spices, vegetables and ghee, at the Gorakhnath Temple. Gorakhnath is their clan deity.
Continuing this custom, former King Shah will make his offering during the visit. Chief Minister Adityanath is also expected to be present at the temple on the occasion.