Odisha: 1 lakh diyas lit around Baba Bhusandeswar temple premises on Mahashivratri
Balasore, February 16
The Baba Bhusandeswar Temple in Balasore marked the conclusion of Mahashivratri with a grand 'Lakhya Deepa Prajwalana', where nearly one lakh diyas were lit around the temple premises.
On Sunday, BJP MP Pratap Sarangi told reporters that the Odisha government has approved a token grant of Rs 10 crore for the temple's development.
"Baba Bhusandeswar Temple is the core of our spirituality, and here, lakhs of devotees gather. Today, 'Lakhya Deepa Prajwalana' is being organised here..I thank the organisers for this. For the development of this Peeth, I have submitted a written request to the Odisha government. I've had discussions with the Deputy Chief Minister and the Chief Minister several times, and in this budget, it will receive a token grant of Rs 10 crores. The government and the Minister have assured that it will be completed once the temple work is complete," Sarangi said.
Committee organiser Abhijit Das emphasised the temple's historical and spiritual importance.
"Many people have come here for Mahashivaratri. The temple is built on Baba Bhushan's land, as people in this region strongly believe it is one of the first lingas, mythologically gifted by Lord Shiva to Ravana. There is extensive spiritual reference, and historically, we know there was a temple around the 6th and 7th centuries. When we excavated the site, we found many artefacts."
Mahashivratri is one of the most auspicious occasions in India. This day is celebrated in the reverence of Lord Shiva.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While the grant for development is welcome, I hope the focus remains on preserving the temple's ancient heritage and the artefacts found, not just on concrete expansion. Our spiritual sites need careful conservation.
The connection to Ravana mentioned here is fascinating! It's amazing how our mythology is woven into the geography of India. More people should know about such lesser-known but historically significant temples.
The scale of this is incredible. Organizing an event with one lakh diyas requires immense planning and community effort. Hats off to the organizers and the devotees who participated. It shows the beautiful cultural fabric of Odisha.
Good to see government support for temple development. Hope the 10 crore grant is used transparently and efficiently for facilities that help pilgrims, like better sanitation, water, and accommodation. Har Har Mahadev!
The spiritual significance is deep, but I also appreciate the mention of the archaeological findings from the 6th-7th century. Our temples are not just places of worship but also repositories of history and art. More such excavations please!
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