Bhubaneswar, March 8 -- A large number of devotees thronged major Shiva temples across Odisha on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri on Friday.

All the arrangements have been made by district administrations and respective temple trusts for the smooth conduct of the rituals and darshan by devotees.

Legend has it that Mahadev had consumed poison to protect the world and the whole world was awake to light lamps in order to save Lord Shiva's life.

On this day, the devotees and their families keep a fast and visit the Shiva shrines and light diyas. They break their fast when the Mahadeep is taken atop the temple.

From Dhabaleswar to Kapilash and Lingaraj to Lokanath, Shiva shrines across the State are expected to host a huge crowd o...