Sakhigopal (Puri): A sea of devotees thronged the sacred town of Sakhigopal on Friday to witness the annual Radha Pada Darshan at the famous Sakhigopal Temple on the auspicious occasion of Anla Navami, observed in the holy month of Kartika.
Over two lakh devotees from across Odisha and neighbouring states gathered since the early hours to catch a glimpse of Goddess Radha’s divine feet, which are unveiled only once a year on this day. The temple witnessed a 3-km-long queue, stretching from Sakhigopal Railway Station to the Singhadwar, with devotees patiently waiting for darshan.
As per the schedule issued by the Puri district administration, general darshan commenced at 5 a.m., with devotees entering through three-layered barricades to ensure smooth and disciplined movement.
On this sacred occasion, Goddess Radha was adorned in the traditional Odiani Besha, draped in the kachha style attire and decked with ornate jewellery, while Lord Krishna appeared in the Natabar Besha, captivating devotees with divine splendour.
To handle the massive turnout, the district administration made extensive arrangements, including temporary shelters, drinking water facilities, and mobile toilets. A cultural programme showcasing devotional music and dance was also organised in the temple premises to mark the occasion.
The Radha Pada Darshan remains one of the most spiritually significant events in the Kartika month, drawing pilgrims who consider it a blessing to witness the goddess’s lotus feet — visible only on this day of the year.
