Bhubaneswar, Jan. 25 -- The historic Khandagiri Kumbh Mela begins on the auspicious occasion of Magha Saptami on Sunday, with Naga sadhus from across Odisha and outside the state gradually arriving at the pilgrimage site. Preparations are underway at the foothills of Khandagiri, where sadhus have begun establishing their respective camps ahead of the nine-day-long religious congregation.

Several sadhus were seen cleaning the area and preparing sacred fire pits as part of the preliminary rituals, reportedly. The administration has put arrangements in place to facilitate the stay and religious practices of the sadhus and saints participating in the annual event.

On the opening day of the mela, sadhus and saints will take a holy dip in Aka...