Bhubaneswar, Jan 28: The much-anticipated Khandagiri Mela, a major religious and cultural event, has already entered its third day, with the crowd steadily growing as the day progresses. The sounds of "Omkar" chants by saints echo throughout Khandgiri and Udayagiri, creating a spiritual ambience in the area. Sacred texts such as the Vedas and Bhagavad Gita are being recited, and various religious discourses are underway.

Devotees have gathered in large numbers to receive blessings from sadhus and saints. As the evening sets in, many are enjoying the vibrant Mahotsav at Khandgiri Pathika. At the same time, the grand Yatra Mahakumbh, which began yesterday, is drawing immense participation, offering a unique blend of entertainment and spiritual fulfillment to the visitors. With its festive atmosphere, the fair is also witnessing an intriguing mix of belief and superstition.

Among the notable devotees is Baba Babhula Mahanti from Nayagarh, who has been battling sciatica for over eight years. Every year, he visits Khandgiri Mela to meet the saints, and this year too, he arrived to seek blessings for his health. Upon meeting Baba, he was reassured that his condition would improve soon. Baba's words brought comfort to Babhula, who was visibly happy.

Babhula is not the only one-many other followers, especially those suffering from ailments, have come to meet the saints, some of whom have become famous for offering medical advice. Among them are the well-known "Standing Baba" and "Doctor Baba," both of whom are reputed for their unique methods of healing and diagnosis. The "Standing Baba," who has been practicing asceticism for 15 years in Haridwar, claims to identify and offer remedies for various diseases by merely observing the patient's face.

There are also notable figures like "Cutpa Baba" from the local Saltpada Hills, who is easily identifiable by his black attire and sword. Despite his unique appearance, Cutpa Baba is known for providing advice to devotees seeking solutions for their health issues.

While many saints are offering medical consultations, the fair has also become a platform for promoting alternative healing methods, particularly Ayurveda. One such saint, Standing Baba, is also advocating the benefits of Ayurvedic treatments to help cure ailments.

Despite the increasing number of visitors, the organizers of the Khandgiri Mela have made it clear that there is no place for superstition or unscientific practices at the event. The Vishwanatan Vaidik Dharma Parishad has issued a strict warning, urging the public to reject any form of pseudoscience. The police have been instructed to enforce this policy and ensure that the event maintains its sanctity.

In addition to the religious practices, the Khandagiri Mela is also a food lover's paradise. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of traditional Odia delicacies, including chat, gupchup, dahibara aludam, thunkapuri, jianta ghooguni, Mathura cake, and Lanka chap. The fair also offers famous regional sweets like Kendrapara rasabali, Nimapada chenajhilli, Salepur rasgolla, Cuttacki chat, and Dhenkanal bara, making it a food haven for visitors from all over.

International tourists, including those from Russia and Italy, have also started arriving at the fair. They are seen enjoying the spiritual atmosphere, taking photos with the sadhus, and learning about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

This year, the Khandagiri Mela is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Vishwanatan Vaidik Dharma Parishad, which is conducting various religious rituals and spiritual events to mark the occasion. As the Republic Day celebrations continue in the city, Khandagiri remains a focal point for both devotees and tourists, with a vibrant crowd gathering late into the night.

While the fair continues to draw large numbers, it has also become a platform for religious, cultural, and culinary exploration, offering a memorable experience for all who visit.