The Joranda Magha Mela, a vibrant and deeply spiritual gathering, kicks off on February 11th. It's a three-day celebration (February 11th-13th) of the Mahima faith, drawing people from all corners of India and world to the small town of Joranda in Odisha's Dhenkanal district.
This year is a big one – it's the 152nd anniversary of this amazing event. Just think how the history and the devotion have flowed through this place for over a century and a half. The heart of the Mela is the Mahima Gadi, the main temple for followers of the Mahima faith. It's already looking spectacular, all decked out in bright, cheerful colors, in preparation for the devotees.
Hundreds of Mahima Sadhus (holy men) have already arrived at the Mahima Gadi, coming from different parts of the country and world. They are at the forefront, ready to welcome and guide everyone, and preparations are complete. They've been busy making sure there's enough space for everyone who wants to stay and be a part of the festivities.
The Mela starts on "Magha Chaturdashi," which falls on February 11th this year, the day before the full moon (Magha Purnima). Devotees begin arriving and gathering, preparing for the main days of the Mela. The core rituals and the lighting of the sacred lamps will take place starting on the 11th. Devotees will make their way to the Mahima Temple, the main Gadi Pitha, to offer their prayers. It's a time of deep connection and reflection.
Devotees from the neighbouring states of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh have started gathering for this festival. The highlight of the festival is the lighting of the sacred lamps, "Jhadbati," and the continuous, eternal flame called "Akhanda Dhuni." This is a symbolic worship of Mahima Prabhu, representing the formless, attributeless Divine. It is believed that seeing this sacred light bestows blessings.
The local authorities and the Dhenkanal district administration are working hard. They're setting everything up – places to stay, food stalls, managing the flow of people, and making sure everyone has access to medical help if they need it. They've even installed CCTV cameras this year to keep things safe and secure, ensuring a peaceful environment for everyone. For this the administrations have deployed ten platoons of Police force and one way traffic has come into force.
And of course, it wouldn't be a Mela without a bit of buzz! Shopkeepers and vendors are already setting up their stalls, ready to offer all sorts of goods, from religious items to local handicrafts and delicious food. Because the weather is looking good, everyone's expecting an even bigger crowd this year. The Joranda Magha Mela is more than just a fair; it's a living, breathing expression of faith, a vibrant coming-together of community, and a powerful demonstration of enduring tradition.
- Report by Pratap Ku.Baral, Dhenkanal
