The Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack district, one of Odisha’s prominent Shiva shrines, observed the second day of the holy Panchuka period of the Kartika month on Sunday. Lord Dhabaleswar appeared in the Chandrachuda Besha, attracting a large number of devotees who arrived early in the morning to offer prayers.

According to temple priests, rituals commenced at around 4 am with the Dwara Phita Niti. After all customary procedures were completed, the deity was adorned with the elaborate Chandrachuda Besha. The temple premises were filled with devotees participating in the early morning darshan.

Temple priest Ajay Pati said, “As per the Odia almanac, Panchuka begins today. However, at Lord Dhabaleswar’s Peeth, it marks the second day of Panchuka. Rituals such as Pahada Niti were conducted, and the Lord was bathed with fragrant water before being adorned in the Chandrachuda Besha. He was offered bhoga items including anna, dalma, khiri, and khechudi. The Lord will again be bathed in the evening, followed by the Sandhya Besha and alati rituals.”

Public Darshan and Security in Place

The temple authorities have allowed public darshan throughout the day. To ensure smooth management and security, two additional SPs, five magistrates, and 15 platoons of police force have been deployed in and around the temple.

Spiritual Fervour Continues at the Shrine

A devotee expressed, “I feel very happy and blessed to have had the darshan of Baba Dhabaleswar.”

Also Read: Panchuka begins at Baba Dhabaleswar shrine; Puri Srimandir gears up for four-day observance

The holy Panchuka period, observed during the last five days of Kartika, holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Located on an island in the Mahanadi River, the Dhabaleswar Temple continues to be a major pilgrimage centre during this sacred time.