Bhakundaleswar, 8th Nov 2025: The ancient international trading center “Manikpatna”, well-known in the heritage and culture of Lord Jagannath, was an important port in its time and continues to hold historical significance. During the month of Kartik, young men from the region used to travel abroad for trade. This place stands as a proud symbol of our rich heritage. According to the records of the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, the medieval port “Chelitol” was the ancient name of Manikpatna, according to some scholars. Manikpatna was a key hub for international trade and also had a large Buddhist monastery. In 645 AD, during Hiuen Tsang’s visit, the city had shops full of precious goods, and beautiful idols were worshiped there. At that time, it was a prominent international city known as Chelitol. After India’s independence, if the maritime heritage of Manikpatna had been properly presented at the Delhi court, it could have been recognized as one of the largest ports in the region. Manikpatna had been the capital of maritime trade in Kalinga for almost two thousand years.
At the sacred Bhakundaleswar Peeth in Manikpatna, the Kundala Mahotsav was organized to commemorate ancient traditions and legends. According to mythology, in the Treta Yuga, Lord Rama placed the earrings (kundalas) he wore in his ears at this site to worship Lord Mahadev. On that day, Lord Mahadev blessed Lord Rama and Lakshman. Since then, Mahadev has been worshiped here as Bhakundaleswar.
To honor this ancient tradition, sand artists created sculptures and illustrations in sand art depicting Lord Rama’s earrings along with symbolic representations. This sand art showcased the grandeur of our ancient heritage. Devotees worshiped these sand artworks with devotion.
The Boita Bandana festival was celebrated symbolically at this place, commemorating the maritime trading port of Manikpatna from the Treta Yuga. During the festival, women of the community offered sandalwood paste, vermillion, lamps, incense, rice, and flowers to the deity Maa Mangala, while young men of the community performed the Boita Bandana ritual, bidding farewell to the ships as they prepared to travel abroad for trade. They recited traditional chants, invoking blessings and safe returns. According to tradition, after the sea became calm, on the full moon day of Kartik, these young men would safely return, completing the ritual cycle.
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