The historic Khandagiri Kumbh Mela commenced in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, January 25, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Magha Saptami. Naga sadhus and saints from across Odisha and other parts of the country have begun arriving at the pilgrimage site, marking the start of the nine-day-long religious congregation.
Preparations are underway at the foothills of Khandagiri, where sadhus have started setting up their camps. Several were seen cleaning the area and preparing sacred fire pits (dhunis) as part of preliminary rituals. The local administration has made arrangements to facilitate the stay, safety, and religious practices of participating sadhus and devotees.
Rituals Mark the Opening of the Nine-Day Fair
The opening day of the mela will feature a series of traditional rituals. Sadhus and saints will take a holy dip in Akash Ganga, followed by the customary Khanda Khiri offering. The rituals will continue with a Kalasa Jatra, formally inaugurating the annual fair.
The Khandagiri Kumbh Mela will continue for nine days, during which various religious observances, spiritual discourses, and ceremonial practices will be held.
Religious and Historical Significance
Also known as the Magha Mela or the Kumbh Mela of Bhubaneswar, the fair is observed annually during the Magha month of the Odia calendar. It is organised near the ancient Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves, which hold immense historical, archaeological, and spiritual importance.
The mela has special significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Samba, the son of Lord Krishna, was cured of leprosy after worshipping Surya Dev (the Sun God) and meditating at the Khandagiri and Udayagiri hills following a holy dip at Chandrabhaga. The fair is believed to commemorate this sacred episode.
Organisers Share Mela Schedule
Khandagiri Kumbh Mela Committee President Raghunath Mohanty said,
“After the Purnahuti ritual, the sadhus will formally participate in the mela. On the following day, Lord Jagannath will arrive from our village to the Ananta Cave, and the jatra will continue in this manner for nine days.”
Officials confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the mela.
