Virtual darshan of Dhabaleswar: Servitors not to cooperate with administration

Cuttack: The servitors of the Dhabaleswar temple in Odisha’s Cuttack district today said they will not cooperate with the administration regarding the decision of virtual darshan of the deity during Panchuka.

As the district administration decided for installing a temporary idol of Lord Dhabaleswar near the suspension bridge connecting the temple, the servitors expressed resentment.

A decision has also been taken for virtual darshan of the deity on LED screen near the hanging bridge.

“We are not in favour of performing rituals near a temporary idol instead of the temple. The rituals will be carried out at the place where it’s meant to be. Other options are not acceptable,” a senior servitor said.

Worth mentioning, devotees have been restricted to visit the Dhabaleswar temple amid concern regarding the safety of the suspension bridge.

This year’s Dhabaleswar Jatra has been cancelled in view of the imposition of prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC at the temple.

In the wake of Morbi bridge tragedy in Gujarat, the district administration has imposed the restrictions ahead of the Bada Osha and Kartika Purnima festivals.

The shrine, located on an island of Mahanadi river in Cuttack’s Athagarh, draws thousands of devotees during the holy month of Kartika.

Devotees reach the temple either by boats or through the suspension bridge, which was constructed in 2006.

The bridge has been closed for public use after detection of cracks by expert team. Repair work will be undertaken by the district administration.