Bhubaneswar, March 9 -- The long-standing dispute between two sects of servitors has once again resulted in suspension of 'Handi Bhanga' ritual of Lord Lingaraj at the 11th century shrine in Bhubaneswar.
According to information, the 'Handi Bhanga' ritual of Lord Lingaraj is conducted every year on the first Saturday following Maha Shivaratri. As per the practice, Lord Lingaraj is taken out in a procession to Kapileswar Temple and the lord returns after being worshipped.
In 2015, a disagreement surfaced between the priests from Lingaraj and Kapileswar temples over conduct of the 'Handi Bhanga' ritual following which the ceremony was called off. Despite multiple attempts by the temple administration and the State government to resolve the ...