After a two-year hiatus, Lord Lingaraj’s annual sojourn to Mausi Maa Temple (Rameswar Temple) was held with public participation. Odisha’s capital city Bhubaneswar celebrated Ashokastami on Saturday, as Rukuna Rath, the chariot of Lord Lingaraj, rolled on Mausi Maa temple road.
By: Devbrat Patnaik
Last updated: 10 Apr 2022, 07:52 PM IST
The annual chariot festival of Lord Lingaraj in Bhubaneswar was held on April 9. The atmosphere in old town area was mesmerizing and electrifying at the same time as Lord Lingaraj atop the Rukuna Rath made His way to Mausi Maa Temple.
Khordha district administration had made elaborate arrangements for the devotees with frequent sprinkling of water while an ambulance was also deployed. Apart from this, police and volunteers were also engaged for smooth conduct of the festival.
As chariots rolled on road, kids were seen standing at the terrace with folded hands praying to the Lord on the auspicious occasion.
This festival celebrated in the month of Chaitra is believed to be 'Papa Binashakari Yatra' which means a festival that destroys all evil and sins.
Devotees congregated in large numbers to pull Lord Lingaraj's chariot, for the first time after two years as restrictions on public participation were lifted in the wake of declining threat of pandemic.
The Bahuda Yatra of Lord Lingaraj will be held on April 13. Rukuna Rath is also called 'Analeuta' as the chariot does not take a turn during the return journey.