Maha Shivratri: Diya mishaps raise safety concerns in Bhubaneswar temples

The air in Bhubaneswar is reverberating with chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ and ‘Shiv Shiv’ as temples are adorned with flowers and illuminated with rows of flickering diyas for Maha Shivratri. Today, devotees are preparing to observe ‘Jagara’, the sacred night-long vigil dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

On this auspicious day, lighting diyas holds a deep spiritual significance, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and devotion over ignorance. Many devotees fast, offer prayers and remain awake through the night in reverence.

However, the festive spirit has been tempered by a recent fire incident in Satya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, where a woman suffered nearly 50 per cent burns after her saree caught fire from a lamp stand inside a temple. She was rescued by priests and fellow devotees and admitted to the hospital, prompting renewed calls for caution.

“There are three tiers on the lamp stand for placing the diyas. She was placing a diya on the upper shelf when her saree accidentally caught fire from a diya kept on the second shelf, without her realising it. By the time she became aware, the flames had spread up to her waist. I urge everyone to remain alert, maintain a safe distance and exercise extreme caution while lighting diyas,” said the servitor who rescued the woman.

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Safety First During Rituals

Experts advise devotees to light diyas only at designated spots and maintain a safe distance from flames. Special care is urged for women wearing sarees or loose garments. Diyas should be kept away from flammable materials such as cloth and wood, and should not be moved while lit. Keeping water, sand or fire extinguishers nearby can prevent mishaps.

“If a person sustains burn injuries on the face or stomach area, the affected part should be covered with a clean, wet cloth, and cool water should be poured gently over it to keep the area cool. Ice should not be applied as it reduces the vascularity in the injured tissue. Only normal running water should be used on the affected area,” advised Ruchi Gupta, Plastic Surgeon.

As Shivratri unites devotees in faith and celebration, a moment of caution can ensure the sacred vigil remains a symbol of devotion, not danger.