Magha Saptami: Lakhs gather at Konark’s Chandrabhaga beach in Odisha to pray to Lord Surya

Arka Kshetra Konark in Odisha’s Puri district witnessed a massive surge of devotees on the occasion of Magha Saptami as lakhs gathered at the sacred Chandrabhaga sea beach to take the holy dip and offer prayers to Lord Surya on Sunday. 

The annual ritual, considered one of the most auspicious events in the region, began in the early hours with devotees bathing in the sea  and witnessing the sacred sunrise.

Following age-old tradition, the three presiding deities, Trivenishwar of Madhipur, Aishaneshwar of Santhapur, and Dakshineshwar of Kurujanga, arrived at the Chandrabhaga Tirtha Mandap in a grand ceremonial procession. After the Mahasnana of the deities, special rituals were performed. Saints, seers, and devotees subsequently took the holy dip and offered prayers to Surya Narayan.

According to Hindu mythology, Magha Saptami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Surya, also known as Mitraditya. It is believed that Samba, the son of Lord Krishna, was relieved from a curse-induced disease after performing penance on the banks of the Chandrabhaga. 

Legends also state that King Langula Narasingha Deva established the Sun Temple at Konark on this auspicious day.

Devotees believe that taking a holy dip at Chandrabhaga on Magha Saptami helps free one’s family from disease, sorrow, and fear. Many devotees observed traditional practices by staying overnight in temporary huts at the Chandrabhaga fairground, cooking food in earthen pots, and breaking the pots as part of the ritual. After an overnight vigil, devotees took the holy dip at dawn and offered prayers during sunrise.