Bhubaneswar (SunstarTV Bureau): In the wake of global pandemic and concerning about safety measures, the Holy dip rituals on the occasion of Magha Saptami conducted without the participation of devotees on Friday.
At around 4.30 am, the three presiding deities of Konark – Tribeniswar, Ishaneswar and Dakhineswar, all forms of Lord Shiva, were escorted on palanquins by servitors from their temples to Chandrabhaga where they were given a customary bath.
Later, servitors were allowed to take bath in the sea following which the Bahuda Yatra, the return journey of the Lords was performed.
Every year, lakhs of pilgrims take the ritualistic bath in Chandrabhaga and pray to Sun God on the auspicious occasion every year. However, this year, devotees have been barred from taking part in the dip rituals.
The prohibitory orders under Section 144 came into effect from11 am on Thursday and will remain in force till 1 pm today.
As many as 14 platoons of police force, 60 police officers, 5 DSP, 14 Inspectors, one additional SP, 200 home guards and 40 life guards were deployed in and around Chandrabhaha to ensure smooth conduct of Magha Saptami rituals.
