Rukuna Rath Yatra in Bhubaneswar: Holy Marichi Kunda water auctioned for Rs 21,000

On the eve of the Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lord Lingaraj, pitchers containing water from Holy Marichi Kunda, a water tank on the premises of Mukteswar temple in Bhubaneswar, were auctioned to childless couples late Friday night.

The highest bidder for the first pitcher of water this year was Jitendra Maharana and Jyotsna Maharana from Damodarpur in Cuttack with Rs 21,000.

Popular Belief

Each year, the sacred waters of Marichi Kunda are auctioned at the historic Mukteshwar temple, a ritual steeped in local legend. Believed to aid childless couples in conceiving, the water attracts hopeful families from across the region on the eve of Ashokashtami.

Sacred Water For Sacred Celebration

Drawing water from Marichi Kunda takes place on the eve of the festival, marking a preparatory ritual for the chariot of Lord Lingaraj. The ceremonial water collecting is a deeply revered practice, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the festivities.

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Auction Process

Shree Lingaraj Sebayat Sangh oversees the annual auction. The process began at midnight, underscoring the fervour and anticipation surrounding this holy tradition. The opening bid for the first pot of water started at 20,000 rupees. After competitive bidding, the Maharana couple from Cuttack, secured the water with a final bid of 21,000 rupees.

"I heard about the popular belief about Marichi Kunda water. I am fortunate enough to get the first pitcher of water in the auction process. I am so much blissful. I am fully hopeful that my wish will be granted by the Lord," said Jitendra Maharana.