Sambalpur, Sep 21: On the auspicious occasion of Mahalaya, the revered presiding deity of western Odisha, Maa Samaleswari, appeared in her rare and divine Dhabalamukhi Besha (white-faced attire), drawing thousands of devotees to the temple premises from early morning.

Throughout the year, Maa Samaleswari is worshipped in her traditional vermilion-hued form. However, on Mahalaya, which marks the conclusion of Pitru Paksha, she adorns a sacred white appearance — symbolizing purity and spiritual elevation.

This form, also known as Ganga Besha, is believed to bestow the same merit as taking a holy dip in the River Ganga.

As per tradition, devotees who are unable to travel to the Ganga for Pind Daan and Tarpan for their ancestors perform the rituals at home and seek darshan of Maa Samaleswari in her Dhabalamukhi Besha to attain spiritual blessings.

The temple trust made elaborate arrangements to manage the surge of devotees. From 4:30 am, the temple opened with Mangala Arati, followed by public darshan from 5 am onwards. The deity will remain in this divine form for two and a half days, with specific timings set for Anna Bhoga, Mahaa Arati, and night rituals.

The belief surrounding this sacred appearance is deeply rooted in local culture — that witnessing Maa in her white form after performing ancestral rites brings peace to departed souls and spiritual upliftment to the living.

The temple premises were adorned with white flowers and conch paste decorations, enhancing the sanctity of the occasion. Devotees queued in long lines, many barefoot and chanting hymns, to catch a glimpse of the Goddess in her rarest form.