Even though the Magha Saptami Mela, also known as Khandagiri mela, is being observed sans devotees due to the present Covid-19 situation, a large number of sadhus have thronged the State capital to participate in the annual festival.
From Doctor baba to Pilot baba, from Standing baba to Rudraksha baba... these sadhus are catching attention of everyone at the mela venue for their unique assumed names.
Meet Doctor baba alias Mahanta Mohan Giri. He is not a doctor by profession but prescribes medicines and his followers claim that the medicinal herbs and leave prescribed by the baba cures critical ailments.
The sadhu who claims to have studied Ayurveda from Nalanda University does not charge anything from devotees for the prescription.
“My friends told me about Doctor baba. He recommends ayurvedic medicine for paralysis, arthritis, brain stroke and other critical ailments,” said Rojalin Sahoo, a devotee.
“I have completed Ayurveda Ratna from Nalanda University. The degree is a five-year course. I provide treatment free of cost,” said Mahanta Mohan Giri, or Doctor baba.
Similarly, another sadhu identified as Digambara Bam Bam Puri Maharaj is catching the eyeballs at the mela for his unusual attire. The baba goes by the name ‘Rudraksha baba’ as his entire body is draped with Rudraksha (stonefruit).
Mahant Chandan Giri, who is also known as Standing baba, is also another attraction at the festival. Every year, the baba keeps standing until the mela gets over.
Standing Baba claims his mentor is Pilot baba who fought the Kargil war.
“I have faith on these sadhus. Therefore, I came here to seek their blessing to get a good job,” said a devotee.
“I am not keeping well, so I came here to seek blessing for early recovery. If I recover, I will definitely come to the mela and offer prayers next year,” said another devotee.
Notably, the Khandagiri Mela is being observed inside the temple at the historical hills with usual rituals without participation of devotees and with strict adherence to Covid-19 safety protocols due to the present Covid-19 situation.
Religious congregations, celebrations, operas have been strictly prohibited at the mela venue.