Mahadeep to Be Raised Atop Lingaraj Temple at 10 PM on Maha Shivaratri

Bhubaneswar: The sacred Mahadeep will be lifted atop the crown of the historic Lingaraj Temple at 10 pm on February 15, marking the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri.

The festival, which celebrates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti, will be observed with special rituals in temples across the state. In Odisha, devotees traditionally break their fast only after witnessing the raising of the Mahadeep atop Shiva temples. In Bhubaneswar, the 11th-century Lingaraj Temple becomes the focal point of devotion, drawing thousands of worshippers eager to witness the sacred ritual.

Maha Shivaratri celebrations at the Lingaraj Temple begin early in the morning and continue throughout the day, culminating in the lighting of the Mahadeep at night. The illumination of the sacred lamp is considered a spiritually significant moment, symbolising the culmination of a day-long observance filled with prayer, fasting, and devotion. For many devotees, it marks the divine peak of their spiritual practice before they break their fast.

The temple administration on Friday convened a preparatory meeting to finalise arrangements for the festival. Discussions focused on the smooth conduct of rituals and the implementation of necessary safety and security measures. With a large gathering of devotees expected, officials have emphasised maintaining a peaceful and devotional atmosphere to ensure the ceremony proceeds without disruption.

As per the decisions taken during the meeting, the Mahadeep will be ceremonially raised at 10 pm, a moment anticipated to be witnessed by thousands gathered at the temple.