TV
In an impressive display of devotion, over Rs 1 crore in cash was collected from the donation boxes (hundis) of Maa Majhighariani Temple in Rayagada on Tuesday.
As per sources, the donation counting process, which lasted for a continuous 10 hours under tight security starting on Monday, revealed a total collection of Rs 1,04,36,963.
Along with the cash, 38 grams of gold and 2.505 kg of silver were also found. The donation counting involved more than a hundred volunteers—both men and women—who expressed their joy and pride in being part of the sacred task.
The temple authorities opened a total of nine hundis in the presence of officials and devotees. Scenes of currency bundles, glittering gold, and shining silver filled the atmosphere with awe and reverence. The denominations ranged from Rs 10 to Rs 500 notes. Some foreign currency notes were also recovered during the counting process.
"We have got a total cash amounting to Rs 1,04,36,963. We have also found 38 grams of gold and 2 kg 505 grams of silver with some foreign currencies," said Rayagada Endowment Department Supervisor Sushant Pujari.
"It's a pleasure that women from each ward of Rayagada town have helped in the counting process of donations. The police administration has also done a great job," said Maa Majhighariani Temple Trust member Radhakrushna Dolei.
As per reports, the counting of donations began on Monday morning under strict police presence and tight security arrangements. The process concluded around 7 PM the same evening.
Devotees express gratitude
All the collected cash and gold-silver offerings were securely transported to the bank in a dedicated vehicle owned by the Majhighariani Trust. The counting operation involved around 300 women volunteers from a local voluntary organization, along with the participation of bank staff. Many of those involved expressed a deep sense of privilege and gratitude for being part of the sacred activity.
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"We are very fortunate to get the opportunity to be part of the counting work. With blessings from the Goddess, we would love to provide more services in the future," said a woman member of a voluntary organization.
The last opening of the donation box had taken place six months ago on January 27. At that time, the temple had received a collection of Rs 99,15,422 in cash, 2 kilograms of silver, and 53 grams of gold.
The district's presiding deity, Maa Majhighariani, continues to draw immense faith and contributions from devotees across the region and beyond. The event not only highlighted the temple’s spiritual significance but also reflected the unwavering devotion of the people.
