Bhubaneswar: The renowned Magha Mela kicked off today at Joranda’s Mahima Gadee in Dhenkanal district, marking the commencement of a grand celebration. As decided by the Satyamahima Management Committee, the lighting of ‘Jhada Dwipa’ will take place at 5:20 pm today, setting the tone for the festivities.
Preparations are in full swing, with a large ‘Jhada Dwipa’ and an ample amount of ghee ready for lighting lamps at the Gadi temple, Dhuni temple, Sunya temple, and other places of worship. A wooden firewood has been prepared in the Dhunikunda, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The annual Prabhu Purnima festival’s rituals were finalised on Sunday night at the ‘Bakladhari Mahima Samaj’ headquarters at in under the chairmanship of Shukadev Baba.
To ensure a peaceful and smooth celebration, the District Magistrate and SP have reviewed the arrangements, with 10 platoons of police force deployed. A large number of devotees gathered on Monday’s Trayodashi, with various shops opening in fair ground and barricades set up at crowded places, including the Gadi Mandir, Dhuni Mandir and Sunya Mandir.
A robust security arrangement, comprising two Additional Superintendent of Police, 5 DSPs, 12 Inspectors, and other personnel, have been mobilised for maintaining law and order. CCTV cameras have been installed in sensitive areas to ensure a smooth and secure celebration.
Numerous Mahima Dharma Sadhus, devotees, monks, and pilgrims will congregate from across the state to worship Mahima Gosain’s Samadhi Pitha or Sunya Mandir.
Mahima saints from the state and outside have arrived at Joranda. The three-day-long festival of the Mahima cult is expected to see around 5 lakh devotees.
