Bhubaneswar: Devotees in large numbers flocked to Lingaraj Temple here in the evening today on the occasion of Mahashivratri to witness the ‘Mahadeepa’, which was raised atop the shrine at 10.20 PM, a little late than the earlier announced schedule of 10 PM.
It was after a gap of two years, devotees were allowed inside the temple to watch the grand spectacle.
The servitors started ascending the 11th Century shrine with the customary ‘Mahadeepa’ (the Great Lamp) at 10.18 PM to the chanting of Om Namah Shivaya. The process and rituals atop the majestic Lingaraj Temple were completed by 10.20 PM and the illuminated Mahadeepa was hoisted.
There was unprecedented vigour and enthusiasm among the devotees while they were keenly gazing at the Mahadeepa.
The devotees broke their fast after this final ritual.
The temple administration had made special arrangements for the smooth and timely conduct of all rituals.
