THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 15, 2026
Odisha was enveloped in an atmosphere of deep devotion and spiritual
fervour on Sunday as lakhs of devotees thronged prominent Shaiva shrines across
the state to observe the sacred festival of Maha Shivratri. From the early
hours of the morning, worshippers from diverse communities gathered peacefully
at temples, offering prayers, lighting lamps, and participating in traditional
rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
At the historic Lingaraj Temple, one of eastern India’s most revered
Shaiva shrines, elaborate arrangements were made in anticipation of the massive
turnout. The sacred Mahadeepa ritual is scheduled for 10 pm, drawing thousands
who wait through the day for the auspicious moment. The Commissionerate Police
deployed 41 platoons of security personnel along with around 200 officers in
and around the temple premises to ensure smooth crowd management. Senior officials
closely monitored surveillance, traffic diversions, and queue systems, while
warning of strict action against the use of fake entry passes to maintain
orderly access.
In Puri, the Maha Shivratri observance — locally known as Jagar Jatra — witnessed
a steady flow of pilgrims at the Lokanath Temple. The district police deployed
five platoons of personnel and positioned security staff at key entry and exit
points to prevent overcrowding and facilitate a comfortable darshan,
particularly for families, elderly devotees, and persons with disabilities.
At the Dhabaleswar Temple in Cuttack, preparations were completed well in
advance, with local authorities coordinating closely with temple committees to
regulate queues and maintain safety standards. The Mahadeepa ritual there is
scheduled to be observed at 1 am, drawing devotees who fast and keep vigil
through the night.
Significant congregations were also reported at the Kapilas Temple in
Dhenkanal, where pilgrims began arriving before dawn, underscoring the
festival’s widespread spiritual resonance across the state.
Across Odisha, the administration focused on inclusive access, enhanced
public safety, and seamless conduct of rituals.
Maha Shivratri, one of the most important festivals dedicated to Lord
Shiva, continues to draw thousands of worshippers each year to Odisha’s
historic temples, reaffirming the state’s rich Shaiva heritage and enduring
traditions of faith and community harmony.
