Maha Shivratri: Odisha soaked in Shiva bhakti as devotees observe Jagar and Mahadipa rituals

On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, Shiva temples across Odisha have come alive with vibrant devotion and spiritual fervour since the early hours of the morning. Major Shaivite shrines in the state are witnessing an overwhelming turnout, with lakhs of devotees thronging temples to offer prayers and take part in sacred rituals.

From the iconic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar to Baba Lokanath Temple in Puri, and from Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack district to Kapilash Temple in Dhenkanal, elaborate arrangements have been made to mark the grand festival. The highlight of the celebrations — the ceremonial lighting of the sacred Mahadipa atop temple spires — is scheduled for late tonight, a moment that draws immense spiritual significance and devotion.

At Lingaraj Temple, the Mahadipa is slated to be raised at 10 PM. Anticipating a massive gathering, the Commissionerate Police has reviewed and strengthened security and traffic management measures. Extensive deployment of police personnel, barricading, crowd control mechanisms, and special traffic diversions have been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the festival.

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In the holy town of Puri, elaborate preparations have been made for the Jagar Yatra of Baba Lokanath, with devotees assembling in large numbers for the night-long vigil and rituals. Similarly, at the renowned Dhabaleswar Temple, the Mahadipa is scheduled to be lifted at 1 AM, with the district administration coordinating efforts to facilitate hassle-free darshan.

Across Odisha, chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, devotional hymns, and the fragrance of incense fill the air, as the state observes Maha Shivratri with profound faith, devotion, and grandeur.