No Khandagiri Mela In Bhubaneswar This Year Also; ‘Jatra’ Likely To Be Cancelled

Bhubaneswar: A day after Puri administration imposed curbs on congregation of devotees at Chandrabhaga beach in Konark on the occasion of Magha Saptami, the BMC on Saturday announced that Kahnadagiri Mela that starts from the day will not be held.

The additional commissioner of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) informed that since large gathering of people is expected during the Khanadagiri Mela, it is likely to spread COVID. Considering this and the restrictions already in force, the BMC has decided to cancel the Mela.

However, the rituals of Magha Saptami will be performed with strict adherence to COVID safety protocols. The jatra (open air opera) may also be cancelled, the additional commissioner said.

Last year also, the BMC had cancelled the Khandagiri Mela due to COVID pandemic on the order of Orissa High Court.

It may be noted that Puri district administration on Friday announced that prohibitory orders will be in force around Chandrabhaga beach in Konark to prevent congregation on the occasion of Magha Saptami on February 7. As a result, the devotees are barred from taking holy dip in sea at Chandrabhaga in view of the COVID situation.

Also Read: Magha Saptami: Odisha’s Chandrabhaga Beach Out Of Bounds For Devotees