Maha Shivratri: 41 platoons of police force, 200 officers deployed at Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar

The holy festival of Maha Shivratri is being observed in Odisha with great religious fervour, as major Shaiva shrines across the state have been witnessing a surge of devotees since early Sunday morning.

Lakhs of devotees are expected to throng temples through the day and night for darshan and rituals, with the ceremonial Mahadeepa scheduled to be raised at different shrines as per tradition.

Tight Security at Lingaraj Temple

At the Lingaraj Temple, the Mahadeepa will be raised at 10 pm tonight. Anticipating a massive turnout, the Police Commissioner has reviewed security and traffic management arrangements to ensure the safety of devotees.

A total of 41 platoons of police force along with 200 officers have been deployed for duty.

The Commissioner has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found using fake passes.

Arrangements in Puri and Cuttack

In Srikhetra, extensive preparations have been undertaken for the Maha Shivratri, also known as Jagar Yatra, at the Loknath Temple.

The Puri SP informed that five platoons of force have been deployed to maintain security and ensure orderly darshan.

Also Read: Lokanath to Lingaraj Temple, Odisha’s Shaiva shrines witness heavy footfall on Maha Shivratri

Similarly, all arrangements have been completed at the Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack district. The Mahadeepa is scheduled to be raised there at 1 am tonight, with authorities confirming that preparations for the Jagar observance have been finalised.

With the Mahadeepa scheduled to be raised at various shrines through the night, authorities remain on high alert to ensure smooth conduct of rituals and safe darshan for devotees.

Amid tight security and elaborate arrangements, Maha Shivratri is being celebrated across Odisha in a spirit of devotion, discipline and spiritual fervour.