Bhubaneswar, Jan 28: The historic Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves have been locked, restricting entry and denying permission to sadhus and saints to perform religious rituals, triggering strong resentment among monks and saints.

According to sadhus, they have not been allowed to enter the caves to conduct yoga or traditional worship. With all the caves remaining locked, many monks and sages have expressed deep dissatisfaction, stating that their age-old religious practices are being disrupted.

Traditionally, the first ritual at Khandagiri hill begins with Surya Puja (sun worship). The sacred Ankura Ropana Puja is also customarily performed inside Ananta Gumpha. However, due to the caves being locked, priests and sadhus are now forced to conduct rituals outside under temporary tents. Similarly, the Akhanda lamp, which is usually lit inside the caves, has also been placed outside.

Sadhus say these arrangements undermine the sanctity and spiritual significance of the rituals, leading to growing discontent within the religious community. They have questioned the decision to bar entry into the caves, calling it an injustice to centuries-old traditions associated with the Jain heritage site.

The issue has sparked debate over heritage management versus religious practices, with sadhus demanding immediate intervention to restore access to the caves for worship and spiritual activities.