The historic Khandagiri Kumbh Mela began on Sunday on the auspicious occasion of Magha Saptami at the foothills of Khandagiri in Bhubaneswar. Naga sadhus and saints from different parts of Odisha and outside the state have started arriving at the pilgrimage site and setting up their camps ahead of the nine-day-long religious congregation.
Several sadhus were seen cleaning the area and preparing sacred fire pits as part of the initial rituals. The local administration has made necessary arrangements to support the stay, safety, and religious practices of the sadhus and devotees participating in the mela.
On the opening day, sadhus and saints will take a holy dip in Akash Ganga, followed by the traditional ritual of Khanda Khiri consumption. The ceremonial Kalasa Jatra will then formally inaugurate the mela. Various religious observances and ceremonies will be held throughout the nine days.
Also known as the Magha Mela or the Kumbh Mela of Bhubaneswar, the Khandagiri Mela is organised annually during the Magha month of the Odia calendar near the ancient Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves.
The mela holds special religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Samba, son of Lord Krishna, was cured of leprosy after worshipping Surya Dev and meditating at these sacred hills. The administration has assured smooth and safe conduct of the event.
