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Bhubaneswar: Devotees and Kanwariyas in large numbers thronged famous Shiva shrines across Odisha to offer their obeisance to Lord Shiva on the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan (Sawan) today.
The atmosphere across the Shiv temples filled with devotion and enthusiasm as devotees made beeline since the wee hour to offer milk, water and ‘bel’ leaves to the almighty on the auspicious occasion.
Notably, in the month of Shravan, kaudias wearing saffron clothes collect holy water from rivers, make Shivalingas on the river bed and worship them before embarking on a long walk to a Shiva temples.
The kaudias carry the water in two containers made of clay or brass or copper attached to a bamboo stick decorated with accessories believed to be loved by the Lord. With water on their shoulder, they time their walk to ensure they reach the Shiva temple of their choice early on Monday morning and then pour the water on the Shivalingas.
During this period, the Bol Bom devotees don’t shave their beard and take only complete vegetarian food without onion and garlic.
It is believed that the special prayers and offerings paid to the Lord Shiva during the holy month of Shravan are answered by him.
The month of Shravan began today (July 19) and will continue till Rakhi Purnima or Gamha Purnima.
In Odisha, there are several Shiva shrines that are considered significant for devotees during the month of Shravan. Here are a few prominent Shiva temples in Odisha:
Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar: The Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar is one of the most important and ancient Shiva temples in Odisha. It is dedicated to Lord Lingaraj, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, and Shravan is considered an auspicious month to offer prayers here.
Kapilash Temple, Dhenkanal: The Kapilash Temple, situated atop the Kapilash Hill in Dhenkanal district, is another significant Shiva shrine in Odisha. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the state and is dedicated to Lord Chandrasekhar, a form of Lord Shiva. Devotees often undertake a pilgrimage to this temple during Shravan to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Akhandalamani Temple, Aradi: Located in the Bhadrak district of Odisha, the Akhandalamani Temple is dedicated to Lord Akhandalamani, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have a self-manifested Shivalinga and is considered highly sacred by devotees. Many devotees visit this temple during the month of Shravan to offer their prayers and seek blessings.
Gupteswar Temple, Koraput: The Gupteswar Temple is situated in the Koraput district of Odisha. It is located inside a cave and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple holds religious significance, and during the month of Shravan, devotees visit this temple to worship Lord Shiva and perform rituals.
These are just a few examples of Shiva shrines in Odisha. The state is home to numerous other temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, where devotees can seek blessings and offer their prayers during the auspicious month of Shravan.
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