In a spectacle of unbridled devotion, lakhs of pilgrims have converged on Puri’s Sri Loknath Temple for the exclusive Pankoddhara ritual on Vijaya Ekadashi. This once-a-year event transforms the temple grounds into a sea of saffron, with devotees queuing since dawn for what priests call the ‘soul-touching’ vision of Lord Shiva.
The ceremony meticulously cleanses the Shiva Lingam, which remains immersed in water throughout the year, unveiling its pristine form amid cheers and prayers. Bathing in the adjacent sacred kund sets the tone for this profound experience, promising purification equivalent to visiting countless sacred sites.
‘What sets this apart is its global singularity,’ shares head priest Shashank Shekhar Mahapatra. ‘No other Shiva temple worldwide offers this ‘first darshan.’ Regular visits show a veiled form, but today, Baba appears in full glory.’
Mythological narratives elevate the shrine’s status, portraying the Lingam as Lord Rama’s divine installation. The temple pond’s waters are credited with miraculous healing, amplifying its draw during the Shivratri season.
Crowd management is robust: dual lines facilitate orderly movement, backed by vigilant police presence. As rituals unfold, the atmosphere pulses with bhajans and incense, reminding all of faith’s enduring power. This Ekadashi reaffirms why Puri remains India’s spiritual epicenter, where rare traditions continue to inspire generations.