Maha Shivaratri 2025: Lingaraj Mahadeepa at 10 PM

Bhubaneswar: The sacred festival of Maha Shivaratri will be observed on February 26, 2025, with the Maha Shivaratri Mahadeepa scheduled to be lifted atop the Lingaraj Temple at 10 PM. The decision was finalized during a preparatory meeting held at the Special Pradakhyna Bhawan.

To ensure smooth darshan and crowd management, 40 platoons of police will be deployed, and floor carpets will be laid for devotees. A special entry gate will be set up for temple servitors and VIPs.

The temple doors will be open for devotees at the following timings:
• Morning: 3:30 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Various arrangements have been made for the convenience of thousands of devotees who gather at the temple to witness the Mahadeepa raising ceremony. Facilities such as shoe stands, emergency fire services, live telecast, mobile health vans, and other essential services have been taken care of under the supervision of District Collector Chanchal Rana.

The meeting was chaired by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan and attended by key officials, including Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, BMC Mayor Sulochana Das, District Collector Chanchal Rana, the ADM, and other committee members.

Maha Shivaratri is one of the most significant festivals for devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple premises witness an influx of thousands of worshippers who observe day-long fasting and participate in various rituals. The lifting of the Mahadeepa marks the culmination of the festival, after which devotees break their fast.

With extensive preparations in place, authorities are ensuring a safe and organized celebration of Maha Shivaratri at Lingaraj Temple this year