The world-famous Chaitra Chadak Mela at the Sri Sri Chandaneshwar Mahadev Temple began on April 3, drawing lakhs of devotees from Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand.
Despite adverse weather, the temple vicinity is vibrating with the spiritual sounds of bells, conches, and "Haribol" chants as pilgrims gather for the traditional Arghya offerings.
To manage the massive surge, the administration has implemented strict security measures:
Security Force: 21 platoons of police, led by Balasore SP Pratyush Diwakar, are deployed at sensitive locations.
Surveillance: CC cameras monitor the Singhadwar and South Gate, while barricades streamline the crowd from Biju Patnaik roundabout.
Rituals: On Thursday, the 5th Argha was offered following traditional temple parikrama by the chief servants.
Devotees can access the shrine via a mandatory ₹10 ticket. Under the watchful eye of senior officials and the Trust Board, the "Chandak Seva" continues to illuminate the border region in a spectacular display of faith and tradition.