BhubaneswarJanuary : The Mahasangam Yatra, organized by the International Temple Management Council (IMPC) and Bhagwa App, has reached the historic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha today. This temple is one of the major and oldest religious sites in Hinduism, where the Harihara form of Lord Shiva and Vishnu is worshiped. The grand yatra is being led by Shri Rajesh Yadav, the Executive President of IMPC, and Shri Deep Sihag Sisai, the National General Secretary of IMPC and Chairman of AVPL International. Over 80 IMPC members and other dignitaries are also participating in this journey.
Today, after performing proper rituals at Singhpur Dham, the yatra entered the Lingaraj Maharaj’s court, where a grand Rudrabhishek of the Shivling and Trishul poojan were conducted amidst devotional bhajans and kirtans. Thousands of devotees participated, and the entire temple complex resonated with the chants of “Har-Har Mahadev,” creating a divine atmosphere.
Lingaraj Temple: Historical and Religious Significance
The Lingaraj Temple is not only famous for its religious significance but also for its stunning architecture, making it a major attraction. Every year, millions of devotees visit the temple to seek spiritual benefits by witnessing the Harihara form of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Through this yatra, IMPC aims to give a new identity to this historic heritage and revitalize Indian culture.
Trishul Poojan at Skill Development Institute in Jamshedpur
Earlier, before departing from Jamshedpur, the Mahasangam Yatra conducted a Trishul poojan at a skill development institute run for young girls. The girls receiving training there warmly welcomed the yatra, and special pooja and rituals were performed in a devotional atmosphere. This event reflects IMPC’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment and skill development.
Worship of 108 Trishuls
In addition, the yatra also conducted pooja of 12 Trishuls that are being carried along with the journey. It is noteworthy that in the Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, 108 Trishuls are being worshiped by 108 priests both in the morning and evening. This worship will continue throughout the 30-day journey. These Trishuls will later be installed in temples.
Next Stop: Mallika Jyotirlinga
The Mahasangam Yatra will now head towards Mallika Jyotirlinga. During the journey, pooja and abhishek will be performed at all the small and large Shiva temples along the way, ensuring continuous service and worship of Lord Bholenath. Special pooja and rituals will be conducted for the Trishul of Lord Shiva, which will be installed after the worship, enabling devotees to connect with this divine mission of spirituality.
Bhagwa App: A Fusion of Tourism and Indian Culture
Supported by the Bhagwa App, this Mahasangam Yatra aims to connect the youth with India’s culture and civilization. During the journey, IMPC is involving Hindu devotees as volunteers by making them travel companions (Yatra Saarthi). Additionally, online registration for vendors selling pooja materials and teams for cleaning ancient temples are also being formed. IMPC’s goal is to connect one lakh volunteers and revive religious sites across the country. The journey also aims to link religious sites with digital tourism, promoting India’s ancient
heritage globally.
About the Yatra
The Holy Mahasangam Yatra began on January 23, 2025, in Delhi and will conclude on February 24, 2025, also in Delhi. This journey, covering 12 Jyotirlingas and 4 Dhams, aims to unite India’s major religious sites and restore their glory. The yatra began with the water abhishek of 108 Trishuls at the Mahakumbh, and these Trishuls will be installed in 108 Shiva temples.
During the yatra, 12 Trishuls, one Shivling, and one Shiva idol will be consecrated at the 12 Jyotirlingas and 4 Dhams. In addition, these temples will undergo renovation, including facilities such as whitewashing, lighting, water supply, and Wi-Fi. On Maha Shivaratri, February 26, 2025, these 108 Trishuls will be installed in 108 Shiva temples as power centers.
The mission is to restore these temples to their grandeur and promote local tourism. This yatra inspires devotion to Lord Shiva and a deep commitment to Indian culture.
About the International Temple Management Council (IMPC)
The International Temple Management Council (IMPC) is a dedicated organization working towards the restoration of temples and cultural sites in India. Its goal is to revive these sacred places and transform them into thriving community centers. This work is being carried out through the collaboration of communities, private enterprises, and governments. Our mission is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on heritage conservation, social upliftment, and environmental sustainability.
In addition to the restoration of temples, we are working on promoting social harmony and environmental awareness. This includes improving basic facilities such as water, sanitation, and renewable energy solutions in temples. We are also bringing about positive change in society through programs related to women’s empowerment, skill development, and child welfare. IMPC aims to promote social prosperity, environmental protection, and unity through India’s temples and cultural heritage.
