Dhenkanal: A myriad of devotees thronged the tomb of Mahima Gosain, 26 km from Dhenkanal headquarters town, on Friday to participate in the 147th Joranda Mela or Magha Mela.
The seven-day Joranda Mela is observed to mark the day of salvation of Saint Mahima Gosain. It is celebrated on a full moon day in the month of January or February.
The fair is organised by Mahanitya Sadhubhakta Mandali, Satya Mahima Dharma Dhama Parichalana Samiti and the Dhenkanal administration.
Eight platoons of armed police force along with one ASP, four DSPs, 49 SIs and ASIs, 10 Havildars, six traffic police personnel and 132 Home Guards have been deployed at the fair to maintain law and order.
The priests at Joranda had been preparing for over a month for this fair, which aims at spreading the message of love and humanity.
Mahima Gosain’s Vision
Mahima Gosain, who was a disciple of Bhima Bhoi, had dreamt of a society that is free from exploitation of the poor and the weaker section. The cult emerged from Jaka village in Dhenkanal district in 1874 in protest against idolatry, casteism and untouchability. While promoting a classless society, the followers offered prayers to ‘Sunya Bramha’ or the shapeless god and recited ‘Mahima Allekh’.
In 1975, the saint selected Joranda as his main abode and started Mahima Mela by igniting the ‘Akhanda Dhuni’ on Magha Purnima (full moon day) for the welfare of people and since then the fire has been burning continuously.
The devotees pour tonnes of pure ghee on the sacred fire chanting ‘Brahma Alekh’ or ‘Mahima Alekh’.
Legend has it that the saint was first seen in Puri and was known as Dhulia Baba. Later, he was found in deep meditation standing on one leg at Khandagiri for several years.
The Mahima monks lead a life of celibacy and piety.
