Keonjhar, Jan 14: On the occasion of Makar Sankranti today, devotees thronged the shrine of Maa Tarini in Ghatgaon to seek blessings. According to Hindu belief, those who take the Makar buda before sunrise and then visit the goddess are blessed with the merit of a crore of lifetimes.

From the early hours of the morning, priests performed the customary rituals, including Mahasnana (holy bath), Majana (application of sacred paste), Bada Singhar besha, and Mangal Aarti. The goddess was then adorned in a golden attire (Sunabesha), and the temple opened to devotees by 6:30 AM.

During the festival, devotees also received Makar Chaula Bhog (special rice offering) at the goddess’s feet, which is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. The occasion saw a large turnout, with devotees eager to witness the goddess in her golden attire and participate in the auspicious rituals.