Bhubaneswar, Feb 21: The much-awaited Handibhanga Jata of Lingaraj will be observed today after a gap of 11 years, bringing joy to thousands of devotees and servitors. On the occasion, Shree Lingaraj, Basudev, Maa Parvati, Kapileswar and Shaniswar will congregate, fulfilling the long-standing desire of devotees to witness the sacred rituals.

The yatra had remained suspended for years due to a prolonged dispute between the Khuntia and Malia servitors over service rights, which had stalled the conduct of the traditional festival.

To resolve the issue, a meeting of the Kapileswar Temple Trust Board was convened at the Special Circuit House under the chairmanship of Khordha District Collector Amrit Ruturaj. Another round of discussions was also held on the 19th. As per the decisions taken, a three-member judicial committee will be formed to finalise the service rights of the Khuntia and Malia servitors of Kapileswar.

Meanwhile, an interim seva-puja schedule has been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the Handibhanga Jata. As per the arrangement, Khuntia servitors performed the Mangala Alati at 4 am on Saturday and will prepare and offer Kotha Bhoga and other offerings for the four daily rituals of the deity.

The preparation of Baradi Bhoga and the evening Bheta Alati ritual of Shree Lingaraj and Kapileswar will be carried out by the Malia servitors. Both groups have agreed to abide by the interim arrangement to ensure the festival is conducted peacefully.