153rd Joranda Mela to commence on Feb 1 in Dhenkanal, 14 platoons police deployed

The annual Magh Mela is set to commence on Sunday at Joranda in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district, with a large congregation of Mahima sadhus and devotees arriving from different parts of the country. 

One of the most important religious gatherings of the Mahima sect, the mela has entered its 153rd year.

Devotees Gather At Joranda Peeth

Sadhus and devotees from across Odisha and several other states have begun assembling at the Joranda Peeth ahead of the mela. Rituals will be held at the Gadi Temple, the samadhi shrine of Gosain, where devotees will offer ghee and coconuts into the sacred fire and pray for the welfare of the world. The mela is observed on the full moon day of Magha, which falls during January–February.

Arrangements And Security Measures

Extensive arrangements have been made by the Kaupinadhari Mahima Samaj and the Bakkaladhari Mahima Samaj to facilitate the smooth conduct of the religious event. Considering the large turnout of Mahima sadhus and devotees from Odisha as well as West Bengal, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand, the administration has put in place enhanced security measures.

Officials said a total of 14 platoons of police force have been deployed in and around the mela area to prevent any law and order situation.

Rituals To Mark The Occasion

One of the key rituals of the Joranda Magh Mela is the lighting of the ‘Jhada Deepa’, a sacred fire lit with ghee. Devotees also take part in collective chanting of ‘Alekh Brahma’ and offer prayers at the Sunya Mandir, Gadi Mandir and Dhuni Mandir.

Religious And Cultural Importance

The Joranda Magh Mela is observed annually to mark the day of salvation of Mahima Gosain, the founder of Mahima Dharma. Established in the 19th century, Mahima Dharma is based on the principles of Advaita Vedanta and emphasises equality, simplicity, and the rejection of idol worship and caste-based discrimination.

Authorities said arrangements are being closely monitored to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees throughout the mela period.