HK Desk 5th February 2025 Magha Saptami and the annual festival of Mahima Ashram in Dhenkanal: Kamakshyanagar were celebrated with great grandeur. Since 1875, Magha Saptami has been observed at this ashram on the Saptami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) in the month of Magha. The residents of Kamakshyanagar also celebrate it as an annual festival. The festivities continue for two days, Saptami and Ashtami, with the distribution of Amanaia Balyalila (sacred food offering) early in the morning on Saptami day.
Spiritual Atmosphere with Bhima Bhoi’s Bhajans and Rituals
Throughout the day, the ashram resonated with devotional songs and kirtans dedicated to Bhima Bhoi, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. At 5:30 PM, an 11-branch sacred Jhadu Deepa (ritual lamp) was lit for the welfare of all living beings, followed by the establishment of the Brahmadhwani and the performance of Ghritahuti (offering of ghee in sacred fire). Various bhajan mandalis (devotional groups) from the region sang Alekh Bhajans, filling the surroundings with devotion. The chants of Alekh Mahima echoed throughout, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
In the morning, a Nagar Kirtan (devotional procession) was held, accompanied by the distribution of Anna Prasad (sacred food offering) as part of the Magha Saptami celebrations. Hundreds of saints and devotees from different regions gathered for this grand spiritual event.