Puri: Devotees in large numbers thronged Shree Lokanath Temple in Puri to catch a glimpse of the revered deity on the occasion of Pankodhar Ekadashi.
As per reports, three days prior to Maha Shivratri, the Pankodhar Neeti is performed, marking a rare and sacred occasion at the temple. This annual ritual holds profound spiritual significance, as it offers devotees a rare and sacred opportunity to behold the Shiva Linga, typically submerged beneath the waters of the temple’s sanctum.
During this ritual, temple priests meticulously remove the accumulated water from around the Shiva Linga using sacred vessels, a task that holds immense spiritual significance. Once the water is drained, the linga is lovingly cleansed with sandalwood paste and fragrant floral essences, purifying it for the revered occasion. This brief window offers devotees an extraordinary opportunity to present ‘bel’ leaves, flowers, and even gold or silver ornaments, an act typically restricted due to the lingam’s submerged state throughout the year. This intimate connection with the divine is cherished by the faithful, making Pankodhar Neeti a deeply cherished event.
As a result, thousands of devotees thronged the temple premises from midnight, eager to witness the sacred Pankoddhara Ekadashi darshan. Many believe that the sanctified soil from the temple’s inner sanctum possesses healing properties, making this occasion a magnet for the faithful seeking spiritual solace and physical well-being. The air was electric with devotion as pilgrants waited patiently, their faces aglow with reverence, to catch a glimpse of the revered deity and partake in the sacred ritual.
The unveiling of the Shiva Linga is a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the eternal presence of the divine, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to partake in the sacred ceremony.
To ensure a smooth and secure darshan, the district administration put in place stringent security measures, including barricades and a heavy police presence.
The temple’s doors opened at midnight, and the Pankoddhara ceremony was performed between 12 am and 4 am.
The Jagatamangala Diya will burn for the next three days, culminating in Maha Shivratri.
Legend has it that Lord Rama himself installed the revered deity, imbuing it with divine energy. On this sacred day, a single darshan is believed to yield the same spiritual merit as worshipping a lakh Shiva Lingas, drawing devotees from far and wide to seek the deity’s blessings.
Security arrangements include an additional SP, 7 DSPs, 16 inspectors, and 7 platoons of police force.
The Legend of Pankodhar Ekadashi
According to ancient texts, Lord Lokanath’s lingam remains submerged in water, symbolizing protection from the cosmic deluge. Legend has it that Goddess Ganga continuously flows over the lingam, which was originally installed by Lord Rama. The Padma Purana narrates the story of King Mandhata, who faced a severe drought and was advised by Sage Angira to observe Pankodhar Ekadashi, appeasing Lord Vishnu and bringing much-needed rain. This sacred ‘vrat’ is also known as Papanashini Ekadashi, believed to wash away sins and fulfill wishes.
