Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Embarks on Spiritual Sojourn at Baba Dhabaleswar, Offering Flag in Solemn Ceremony

In a poignant display of spiritual devotion, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister of Railways, IT, and Communication, sought the divine blessings of the Shivaling at Baba Dhabaleswar. Engaging in a reverential puja and aarati ceremony at the revered Shiva Peetha, the minister culminated the sacred rites with a symbolic gesture – offering a consecrated flag to Baba Dhabaleswar.

Baba Dhabaleswar, situated in Athagarh, stands as an iconic symbol for its renowned Shiva temple, majestically positioned atop a hillock within the Mahanadi River in Odisha. This spiritual haven, located 27 km from the city of Cuttack, not only radiates a sense of tranquility but also encapsulates the cultural richness of the region.

The nomenclature “Dhabaleswar,” derived from the fusion of “Dhabala” or White and “Eeswar” or God, finds its origin in a miraculous event attributed to Lord Shiva. According to regional folklore, the temple’s mystique is enriched by a captivating tale of a thief who, seeking refuge, stole a black bull calf from a village and found sanctuary within the Shiva temple. Concealing himself with the calf in the sanctum, the thief faced an angry crowd waiting outside. In an extraordinary turn of events, the thief appealed to Lord Shiva, transforming the black bull into a white one, ultimately revealing himself as a devoted devotee of Lord Siva.

Baba Dhabaleswar is swiftly gaining recognition as a coveted picnic and tourist destination for residents of Cuttack and the surrounding areas, allured by its spiritual ambiance. The Dhabaleswar Jhoola Pola, acknowledged as one of the country’s longest hanging bridges, stands as a prominent tourist attraction, further enhancing the allure of the location.

The temple not only serves as a spiritual sanctuary but also hosts cultural festivities. A grand fair, known as Bada-osha, graces the shukla paksha chaturdashi of Kartika, attracting a large congregation of devotees. Additionally, Makar Sankranti and Mahasivaratri are celebrated with fervor, contributing to the vibrant cultural calendar of the region.

Nestled on an island in the River Mahanadi, the temple is adorned with stone carvings that trace back to the early 10th and 11th centuries, encapsulating a historical dimension within its spiritual essence. The serene ambiance surrounding the temple provides a sacred haven, evoking spiritual sentiments among visitors from all walks of life.

Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s spiritual odyssey at Baba Dhabaleswar, marked by seeking blessings and offering a consecrated flag, not only exemplifies his personal commitment to spiritual values but also underscores the intrinsic connection between governance and the rich cultural and religious heritage of the nation. The convergence of the minister’s public duties with a spiritual pilgrimage showcases a holistic approach to leadership, embracing diverse facets of life in the service of the people.