Bhubaneswar, Jan 15: Normalcy returned to Lord Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar on Thursday after a prolonged dispute between Badu Nijog and Suara Nijog servitors was finally resolved. According to reports, no rituals had been conducted at the temple since the Sandhya Dhupa on Tuesday evening due to disagreements between the two groups. As a result, the presiding deity remained fasting, and even the important Makara Sankranti rituals could not be performed on Wednesday, causing distress among devotees.

The dispute reportedly erupted over the performance of the Kheera Aauta ritual, a significant offering during Makara Sankranti, with both servitor groups claiming traditional rights to conduct it. Following intervention and discussions, the matter was settled, allowing rituals to resume on Thursday morning. Mangala Alati and Dhadi Darshan were performed, restoring regular worship practices at the shrine.

Meanwhile, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh expressed serious concern over the suspension of rituals, terming the incident “highly unfortunate.” He said halting temple rituals had hurt the religious sentiments of devotees. Singh warned of strict action against those responsible, stating servitors are meant to perform rituals, not disrupt them. He urged them to respect traditions and protect devotees’ faith.

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