In Mayurbhanj district, pataleswar mohadev devotees demand for the construction of a new Shaiva temple, Bhagavata Tungi (religious discourse hall), and a conference hall at Takhatpur, Pataleswar Baba Shiva pith, Baripada.

Baripada – On the occasion of the 39th Maha Shivaratri at the shrine of Patalashwar Temple, thousands of devotees celebrated the Jagar festival this year, as they do every year. Along with local residents, thousands of devotees from the neighboring states of Jharkhand and West Bengal lit sacred Jagar lamps and prayed for the well-being of their families. The Maharani of Mayurbhanj, Rashmi Rajyalakshmi Bhanjdeo, offered prayers to Lord Patalashwar during the day and spent valuable time in a devotional atmosphere. Devotees thronged the shrine to worship Lord Mahadev and seek fulfillment of their wishes. They offered bel leaves, milk, coconuts, flowers, incense, and lamps at the holy shrine. For many years, devotees have been continuously visiting this sacred Shaiva shrine. The Hon’ble President of India has also previously visited this shrine to offer prayers. For the residents of the area and many students studying nearby, it is a place of deep faith and belief. A large crowd gathers here every Monday and Sunday. Therefore, there is a growing demand from various sections of society for the construction of a larger temple at this site. As it is an ancient Shaiva shrine of the Sanatani Hindu faith, devotees are urging the government to construct a modern-style temple, along with a Bhagavata Tungi and a large mandap. Intellectual circles have welcomed this demand.