The much-awaited Joranda Mela began today at Mahima Gadi in Dhenkanal district and will continue until February 7, drawing lakhs of devotees from across Odisha and beyond.
The festival commemorates the salvation of Mahima Gosain, revered leader of the Mahima Dharma movement, at the Sunya Mandir temple dedicated to the formless lord, Sunya Bramha. Saints and devotees gather at shrines like Gadi Mandir, Dhuni Mandir, and Ghanta Mandir to pay tribute, making Joranda Mela a spiritually unique experience.
Inside the temple, no idol worship takes place. Instead, the perpetual flame ‘Akhanda Dhuni’, ignited by Mahima Gosain, continues to burn. The main attraction remains the ‘Yagna Kund’ havan, where thousands of litres of ghee are offered. Devotees chant ‘Alekh Brahma’ in unison, seeking peace and prosperity for the world.
Mahima Gosain, also known as Mahima Swami, founded Mahima Dharma in the mid-19th century. His teachings emphasised worship of a single, formless deity, self-discipline, moral integrity, and compassion. Gosain first appeared in Puri in 1826, later spending 24 years in meditation at Kapilas, Dhenkanal. On Magha’s bright 14th day, he established the Mahima cult, ushering in a new spiritual era.
The district administration has implemented strict security and traffic measures ahead of the Chief Minister’s visit on February 1. With lakhs expected to attend, officials aim to ensure smooth conduct of the mela.
