Bhubaneswar, Feb 17: The renowned Khandagiri Magha Mela, also referred to as the Kumbha Mela, commenced at Khandagiri in Bhubaneswar on Friday, marking the auspicious occasion of Magha Saptami.
The beginning of the Magha Mela of Maa Barabhuja of Khandagiri hill began with the 'kalas yatra'.
As part of this ritual, water was collected from Akash Ganga, Gupta Ganga, Radha Kunda, Shyam Kunda, and Lalita Kunda, and a 'kumbha' was ceremoniously placed. Simultaneously, Naga sadhus and saints from various parts of the country commenced their worship by initiating Maha Kaal at yajna or havan kunds.
Devotees flocked to the visiting sadhus seeking insights into their future.
The Khandagiri Magha Mela is renowned for its opera shows, with 12 opera troupes set to stage plays at six opera pandals. While tents are being erected, flex banners of these opera parties are already visible across the mela ground.
This year, the administration has urged opera show organizers to cap ticket prices between Rs 150 and Rs 250 and to refrain from incorporating vulgarity in melodies, record dances, and opera presentations.
