Bhubaneswar: The sacred festival of Mahashivratri, known locally in Odisha as Jagara Yatra, is being celebrated with profound devotion and grandeur across the state today.
This day falls on the Chaturdashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the Phalguna month, drawing millions of devotees to worship Lord Shiva through fasting, night-long vigils, prayers, and rituals.
In Odisha, the celebrations reach their pinnacle at the historic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, often regarded as hosting one of India’s largest and most spectacular Mahashivratri observances. The iconic 11th-century temple, dedicated to Lord Lingaraj, a form of Shiva, has transformed into a glowing spiritual beacon.
Thousands of earthen lamps and elaborate light decorations illuminate the shrine, creating a mesmerizing golden aura that has captivated devotees.
Rituals at Lingaraj Temple commenced in the early hours with Mangala Alati and Abakash from 3:00 AM to 3:30 AM, followed by other ceremonies including Rosa Homa, Mahasnana Besa, Surya Puja, and special bhog offerings throughout the day. Devotees observed Sahanamela Darshan from early morning amid chants of “Har Har Mahadev, Omm Namah Shivaya.
The ceremonial lighting and placement of the Mahadeepa (the great sacred lamp)—is set for 10:00 PM atop the temple spire, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the culmination of the Jagara Yatra. Thousands gather in anticipation, breaking their strict fast only after witnessing this divine moment.
Authorities have deployed extensive security measures, including 41 platoons of police, traffic management plans, and warnings against fake online passes to ensure smooth darshan and devotee safety.
Similar fervent celebrations are taking place at other prominent Shiva shrines in Odisha, such as Kapilash in Dhenkanal, Loknath in Puri, Akhandalamani in Bhadrak, Panchalingeswar in Balasore, Haishankar in Bolangir, Dhabaleswar in Cuttack, Gupteswar in Koraput, Ladukeswar in Nayagarh, Vedvyas in Rourkela and Mahavinayak in Chandikhol. Similarly, all Shiva temples across the State also witnessed similar preparations to celebrate and observe the great rituals.
The atmosphere remains charged with devotion and spiritual energy.
