Darshan at Panchalingeshwar Temple in Odisha suspended due to heavy rain

Darshan at the famous Panchalingeshwar Temple in Nilagiri, Balasore, has been suspended for an indefinite period due to heavy rainfall and a strong flow of water from the nearby waterfall.

As per sources, the water flow is very intense in the Puja mandap area where diyas are lit for worshipping, prompting officials to restrict access. Devotees have been barred from touching the Lingam because of the powerful flow of water.

“It is raining incessantly for over a week now and it has become impossible to approach the Shiva Lingam. The Puja Mandap was submerged under 2 feet of water, and the priest was unable to perform Puja rituals. Keeping the safety of devotees in mind, we are barring them from touching the Shiva Lingam and approaching the area. Unless the flow of water stablizes and it becomes safer, we cannot allow anyone to go inside,” said Sanatan Barik, a member of Panchligeswar Temple management.

Meanwhile, many devotees coming from outside the State felt disappointed that they failed to have darshan of the Lord, following the restrictions due to heavy rainfall.

“We wanted to have darshan of Baba Panchalingeswar but are disheartened because it is not possible for the time being. However, we did the Puja rituals,” said one devotee.