The annual holy dip rituals at Chandrabhaga beach near Konark will be observed tomorrow (February 7) sans participation of devotees.
The district administration has clamped Section-144 from 4 pm today in the vicinity of the Sun temple and the beach area where the bathing rituals will take place to prevent gathering of public on the occasion. The restrictions will remain in force up to 9 am tomorrow.
As per the long-followed tradition, the rituals of Magha Saptami takes place on the seventh day of the waxing phase of the Odia month of Magha every year.
In view of the persisting Covid situation in the State, the Puri District Administration has imposed restrictions over the congregation at the fairground in Chandrabhaga, Tirtha Pushkarini (pond), and Navagraha temple.
The servitors (sevayats) associated with the rituals only will be allowed to enter the temple and other areas. Apart from that, the on-duty government officials, local media representatives, and authorised persons are also permitted to attend the rituals.
"Owing to the pandemic situation, Section- 144 has been clamped at Chandrabhaga beach and its proximity," informed Bhabtaran Sahoo, Sub-Collector, Puri.
Meanwhile, devotees are unhappy over the restrictions imposed over the public bathing rites at the beach ahead of the auspicious day.
"Since two years I have been visiting the place and observing 'Habisa' throughout the month. But, we are not allowed for the Holy dip on Saptami which is a part of the ritual. We are extremely disappointed," said a devotee.
Another devotee rued, "I am observing 'Habisa' wishing wellbeing for my children and family's good health. The holy dip is an essential part of the rite. I am extremely dejected as restrictions have been imposed on the same."