Joranda Mela organized by the Joranda of Dhenkanal District is one of the poplar fairs in the Indian state of Orissa. Famous as the religious headquarters of `Mahima Dharma`, Joranda houses the samadhi of Mahima Gosain, the preacherpropounder of the Mahima Cult. The other sacred temples are the `Sunya Mandira`, `Dhuni Mandira` and `Gadi Mandira.` Tourists across India assemble in Joranda to be a part of the mega fair. The fair is held annually on the full moon day of Hindu calendar month Magha or in February.
Joranda Mela is also called Mahima Mela by the local people as this festival is celebrated by the followers of Alekh-Mahima religion. The fair goes on for three day, and at that time the Mahima sages from different corners assemble to worship Samadhi Pitha of Mahima Gosain. The Joranda Mela is mainly celebrated by the people belonging to Mahima dharma religion.
During Joranda Mela a Bairagi is initiated to the superior disciple, Apara Sanyasi. The devotees who visit the fair are preached about ways of achieving Nirvana. In 1874 Mahima Swami conceptualized the idea of observing a fair for the first time and since then, this fair is being held every year.
A Havan or Yagya is also held in the `Yajna Kund` as a part of mela celebrations. Huge amounts of ghee are offered and burned in the Havan fire to ensure the peace must prevail on earth and all the people will be gifted with all his basic needs. Atmosphere reverbs with the sound of `Alekh Brahma` by devotees in rhythmic tone.
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