Nine-Day Hingula Jatra in Talcher kicks off, Maa appears before devotees in fire form
Talcher : The renowned nine-day-long Hingula Jatra has commenced at the Gopalprasad Maa Hingula Peetha in Talcher. Thousands of devotees across Odisha throng at the shrine to have a darshan of the Goddess Hingula.
The festival kicked off with traditional rituals as Maa Hingula, the presiding deity of Talcher, is believed to appear once a year in her fire form to bless her devotees. According to beliefs, those who witness this sacred form of the goddess have their wishes fulfilled.
Besides the religious rituals, the Hingula Mahotsav also started yesterday, featuring a rich cultural lineup. Renowned artists from within the state and outside are scheduled to perform, making the festival a blend of spirituality and celebration.
Furthermore, 10 platoons of police have deployed along with dedicated volunteers to ensure the smooth conduct of the festivity. All customary rituals were carried out inside the Hingula temple, Mangala temple and the spot where the Goddess appeared in the form of fire, earlier from the wee hours on Friday.
Legend has it that Maa Hingula is the presiding deity in the Rosa Sala( kitchen) of the Puri Jagannath temple. The Goddess is believed to leave for the Hingula temple in Talcher during the festival who manifests herself before tens of thousands of devotees as Agnee Rupa(a form of fire).
Supriya Sahu and Amiya Ratna Sahu, both devotees, shared their heartfelt excitement and devotion toward witnessing Maa Hingula’s divine presence.
Rajendra Kumar Singh, a member of the temple trust, highlighted the extensive arrangements made for devotees’ comfort and cultural programs. Meanwhile, Samir Kumar Jena, the Sub-Collector of Talcher, confirmed the administration’s full cooperation and support for the success of the festival.
The nine-day journey will conclude on April 19, after which another important ritual known as the Sheetula Jatra will take place, marking the completion of the Hingula festivities for the year.
