Bhubaneswar, Feb 14: The Shri Lingaraj Temple administration has announced minor changes to the ritual schedule for Maha Shivaratri, one of Odisha’s most significant religious festivals.

As per the revised timetable, the sacred Mahadeepa will be raised at 10 PM, after which the Chari Prahara Puja, Harihara Bheta, Badasinghara, and Pahuda rituals will continue until 5:30 AM on Monday morning.

The day’s rituals will begin with Mangala Alati and Abakash at 3 AM, followed by Sahanamela Darshan for devotees until 11 AM. Other key rituals include Rosha Homa at 6:30 AM, Chhamu Cleaning at 11 AM, and Mahasnana Besha at noon. Afternoon and evening rituals such as Surya Puja, Bhubaneswari’s Dhupa, Bhog Mandap, and Majana Besha will precede the grand Mahadeepa Darshan.

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The Chief Minister recently held discussions with servitor representatives regarding festival preparations.

Following these consultations, the Trust Board and district administration approved the revised schedule to ensure smooth conduct of the rituals and better management of the large influx of devotees expected during Maha Shivaratri.

The New Schedule Includes:

• Mangala Alati and Abakash from 3 AM to 3:30 AM.

• Sahanamela Darshan from 3:30 AM to 11 AM

• Rosha Homa at 6:30 AM.

• Chhamu Cleaning from 11 AM to 12 PM.

• Mahasnana Besha between 12 PM and 12:45 PM.

• Surya Puja and morning incense until 2:30 PM.

• Bhubaneswari’s Morning Dhupa at 2:45 PM.

• Bhog Mandap rituals ending at 3:45 PM.

• Second Sahanamela at 4:45 PM.

• Evening rituals including Alati and Terafita at 7:30 PM.

• Majana and Besha from 7:30 PM to 8:10 PM

• Yatra Puja and Bedha from 8:10 PM to 8:55 PM.

• Mahadeepa Darshan at 10 PM, followed by concluding rituals until 5:30 AM