After a long gap of 11 years, the Handibhanga Jatra of Lord Lingaraj is set to resume at the historic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The ritual had been suspended due to disputes between servitor groups, but recent discussions and administrative intervention helped resolve the issues.
The revival of the Jatra comes after multiple meetings led by district authorities, including Khordha Collector Amrit Ruturaj, along with temple trust officials and sevayats. Special committees have been formed to manage servitor rights and ensure smooth conduct of temple rituals.
During the festival, Lord Lingaraj will unite with Lord Vasudev, Maa Parvati, Kapileswar, and Shaniswar, making it a spiritually significant occasion for devotees. Various traditional rituals and offerings, including Kotha Bhoga, Baradi Bhoga, and Bheta Alati, will be performed by designated servitors.
The agreement between Khuntia and Malia servitors has paved the way for the peaceful revival of the festival, bringing joy and spiritual excitement to thousands of devotees.
