Mahashivratri celebrations light up Odisha with devotional fervour

Temples of Lord Shiva across Odisha are abuzz with festivities as devotees gather in large numbers to celebrate Mahashivratri on Wednesday. 

The air resonates with the sacred chant of 'Om Namah Shivaya’ at Lord Shiva’s shrines throughout the state. Devotees have been thronging various temples since early morning to participate in special prayers and rituals. The Ekamra Kshetra exudes an especially festive atmosphere.

Devotees throng Lingaraj temple

At the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, a significant influx of devotees is anticipated in the evening, with the spectacular lifting of ‘Mahadipa’ (grand lamp) atop the temple and the lighting ceremony scheduled for 10 pm. 

The temple authorities have reportedly put extensive measures in place to ensure visitors enjoy a peaceful and orderly darshan. 
Security is a priority, with 100 police personnel and 40 platoons deployed to manage the crowd and maintain order.

Must Read: Maha Shivratri: 40 platoons of police force to be deployed at Lingaraj temple in Bhubaneswar

As per reports, a large number of devotees have already been waiting in long queues since last night to have darshan of Lord Lingaraj and all the rituals of the temple are being performed in time.

“It’s a grand and auspicious day for all the devotees of Lord Shiva. I have been waiting to have the darshan of Lord Lingaraj since 2.30 am,” said a devotee.

Statewide festivities

Celebrations are not confined to Bhubaneswar. Significant events are also taking place at Baba Loknath temple in Puri, Baba Dhavaleshwar shrine in Athagarh, and the revered Chandrasekhar Temple in Kapilash. In Aradi Dham, a distinctive two-day festival is underway at the shrine of Baba Akhandalamani.

In Sharanakula, Nayagarh, the ritual of Mahadipa will be observed at midnight. The Kapilash Temple is set to light its ceremonial lamp at 4:20 am, while Puri's famed Loknath Temple has scheduled its event for 3 am. 

Devotees will gather around the illuminated lamps, praying for the welfare of their families and loved ones, and seeking the divine blessings of Lord Mahadev.