Bhubaneswar, Ap 3: With the construction of the Rukuna Rath almost complete, the sacred consecration rituals of the chariot at Lingaraj Temple will take place on Saturday.
Moreover, the ritual will begin with the collection of water from the Marichi Kunda. After this, an auction will be held where issue-less couples bid for the first pot of the holy water. The water is believed to have the power to cure infertility in women if bathed in and consumed on the eve of the Ashokasthami festival.
According to mythology, Lord Shiva had killed a demon named Maricha at this spot. When Maricha’s wife, Marichi, prayed to Lord Shiva to bless her with motherhood despite her husband's death, he granted her wish. Since then, the water of Marichi Kunda has been considered sacred.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the ritual, the administration has made arrangements, including setting up makeshift tents and installing lighting near the tank.
Netrotsav and Rukuna Rath Yatra Schedule
The day will also witness the Netrotsav (festival for the eyes) ceremony, during which Lord Lingaraj will make his first appearance to devotees before the grand Rukuna Rath Yatra.
The annual Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lord Lingaraj is set to take place on 5th April. The day's rituals will begin with Mangala Alati at 5 AM, followed by Abakasha Niti and other ceremonies. The Pahandi procession, in which the deity will be carried to the chariot, will take place before the grand journey.
The chariot will be pulled in the afternoon and will reach the Rameshwar Temple in the evening, where further rituals will be performed. The Bahuda Yatra (return journey) will take place on 9th April.
Devotees are eagerly waiting for this auspicious occasion, which is one of the most significant festivals in Odisha's cultural and religious calendar.
