Arka Kshetra Konark in Odisha’s Puri district witnessed an overwhelming turnout of devotees on Magha Saptami, as lakhs gathered at the sacred Chandrabhaga sea beach on Sunday to take the holy dip and offer prayers to Lord Surya, the Sun God.
Considered one of the most auspicious festivals in the region, Magha Saptami rituals began in the early hours of the morning. Devotees bathed in the sea at dawn and participated in prayers while witnessing the sacred sunrise, a central spiritual practice associated with the occasion.
Following long-standing tradition, the three presiding deities — Trivenishwar of Madhipur, Aishaneshwar of Santhapur, and Dakshineshwar of Kurujanga — were ceremonially brought to the Chandrabhaga Tirtha Mandap in a grand procession. The rituals included the Mahasnana (holy bath) of the deities, followed by special prayers. Saints, seers, and devotees later took the ritual dip and offered prayers to Surya Narayan.
According to Hindu mythology, Magha Saptami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Surya, also known as Mitraditya. Legends narrate that Samba, son of Lord Krishna, was cured of a severe disease after performing penance on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River. It is also believed that King Langula Narasingha Deva established the iconic Sun Temple at Konark on this auspicious day.
Devotees hold a deep belief that bathing at Chandrabhaga on Magha Saptami helps cleanse families of disease, sorrow, and fear. Many pilgrims observed traditional customs by staying overnight in temporary huts at the Chandrabhaga fairground, cooking meals in earthen pots, and breaking the pots as part of the ritual observance. After an overnight vigil, devotees gathered at dawn to take the holy dip and offer prayers during sunrise.
The annual event once again highlighted Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage, drawing pilgrims from across the state and beyond in a vibrant display of faith and devotion.
