Joranda Mela Odisha

The Joranda Mela, a popular fair, also known as Magha Mela and Mahima Mela is held at Joranda, Dhenkanal district, Odisha. It is one of the famous fairs of Odisha that is held annually on the full moon day of Hindu calendar month of Magha on Magha Purnima day which falls in the month January or February. A huge number of Mahima Sanyasis (ascetics), devotees, monks, and pilgrims take part in Joranda Mela to worship Mahima Gosain's Samadhi Pitha (shrine) in Sunya Mandir (temple). The temple in Odisha was built in the early 20th century; however, the shrine existed since the fourteenth century. During the mela, all pay their tribute at Mahima shrines known as Gadi Mandir, Dhuni Mandir, Akhanda Bati Mandir and Ghanta Mandir. Joranda Mela is observed to mark the day of salvation of Mahima Gosain in Sunya Mandir (temple) and is celebrated in particular by the people of Mahima sect. The temple is dedicated to the supreme lord as Sunya Bramha, the shapeless lord.

No image worship is done inside the temple. The great saint had ignited a perennial flame called the 'Akhanda Dhuni' at Joranda, which continues to burn till today. A Havan or Yagya is held in 'Yagna Kund' (holy pyre) as a part of mela celebrations and is the main attraction for the tourists. Thousands of liters of ghee is offered to havan fire. Special prayers are made to bring peace upon earth and to bring prosperity to people. Devotees chant 'Alekh Brahma' in a rhythmic tone and the rhythmic sound engulfs Joranda with it. It is exclusively a mass prayer of ascetics for the welfare of the world, which aims at spreading the message of love and humanity in the name of Mahima Gosain, the founder of Mahima Dharma. It is a pious Hindu festival and one of the top fairs celebrating rich tradition, art, and culture of Odisha.

Highlights of the Festival

• The Joranda Mela or popularly known as Magha Mela and Mahima Mela held at Sunya Mandi  at Joranda.
• The fair is held on the full moon day of Hindu calendar month of Magha which falls in the month January or February.
• Mahima Sanyasis take part in Joranda Mela to worship Mahima Gosain's Samadhi Pitha.
• Joranda Mela is observed to mark the day of salvation of Mahima Gosain.
• A perennial flame called the 'Akhanda Dhuni' at Joranda burn to this day.
• A Havan or Yagya is held as a part of mela celebrations and special prayers are offered to bring peace and prosperity to people.