Bhubaneswar: In a tragic incident at Odisha’s historic Lingaraj Temple, a priest fell from a height of 20 feet while carrying the Mahadeep, the sacred lamp, to the Sikhar (temple peak) as part of the Mahashivratri ritual.The accident occurred around 10 pm, sending shockwaves among devotees gathered for the auspicious occasion. The priest, identified as Jogendra Samartha, was immediately rushed to Capital Hospital.Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and law minister Prithiviraj Harichandan visited the hospital to assess the situation. Speaking to reporters, Minister Harichandan said, “The injured priest is receiving the best possible medical care. He is stable, and others who sustained minor injuries from burning oil are also recovering well. There is no cause for alarm.”Eyewitnesses and volunteers who quickly transported the injured priest to the ambulance reported that he suffered severe facial injuries and was bleeding profusely during the rescue. Unconfirmed reports from hospital sources suggest that the priest has also fractured one of his legs.In addition to Jogendra, two other priests and a police official sustained minor injuries as hot oil spilled during the mishap. They were also taken to Capital Hospital for medical attention.Local Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Babu Singh, who visited the hospital, expressed relief at the priest’s recovery, saying, “Jogendra Bhai is doing well. He has been carrying the Mahadeep for over 30 years on Mahashivratri.”Jogendra is known for his dedication, carrying the holy lamp to the temple peak nearly 24 times a year, apart from the annual Mahashivratri ritual. His commitment to this age-old tradition has earned him great respect among the devotees and temple community.The incident has cast a shadow over the festivities, with prayers pouring in for his speedy recovery.
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