Bhubaneswar is preparing to welcome thousands of devotees and visitors to the Khandagiri Mela 2026, one of Odisha’s most important religious and cultural fairs. Held near the historic Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves, this annual Magh Mela is deeply rooted in tradition, spirituality, and community life. Every year, saints, monks, artists, and pilgrims from across India gather here to take part in rituals, cultural programmes, and spiritual discussions.

Organised by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Odisha Culture Department, Khandagiri Mela 2026 will take place from 25 January to 7 February 2026. The festival combines devotion with vibrant cultural activities, including Jatra performances, folk music, and dance. With enhanced security, improved facilities, and strict guidelines to maintain the sanctity of the event, the mela promises a safe, meaningful, and enriching experience for all visitors.

Event Details

• Festival Name: Khandagiri Mela / Khandagiri Magh Mela 2026
• Dates: 25th January to 7th February 2026
• Location: Near Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
• Organised By: Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) & Odisha Culture Department

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

• One of Odisha’s most important religious fairs
• Linked with ancient traditions and Hindu mythology
• Promotes spiritual learning, cultural unity, and social harmony
• Attracts saints, monks, scholars, and devotees from different parts of India

Security and Safety Arrangements

• 100 CCTV cameras installed across the mela area
• Additional police forces deployed for crowd control
• Continuous monitoring to ensure safety and smooth movement
• Strict rules to maintain discipline and sanctity of the event

Facilities for Saints and Devotees

• Accommodation, food, and sanitation for over 1,000 saints and monks
• Seven large pandals for:
  • Cultural performances
  • Religious discourses
  • Spiritual discussions
• No obscene or inappropriate performances allowed
• Focus on preserving the spiritual atmosphere of the mela

Cultural Highlights and Performances

• Jatra performances will be held in seven designated pandals
• Each pandal will host:
  • Cultural programmes
  • Religious discourses
  • Folk music and dance
• Organisers and performers will be strictly instructed to follow the ban on obscene content
• All performances will respect the spiritual and cultural values of the mela
• Focus will remain on traditional, devotional, and family-friendly entertainment

Mythological Roots of the Mela

• Linked to the legend of Samba, son of Lord Krishna
• Believed that Samba cured himself of leprosy by:
  • Worshipping the Sun God
  • Meditating at Khandagiri and Udayagiri
• The mela commemorates this belief and promotes devotion and faith

Attractions for Visitors

• Handicraft stalls featuring:
  • Applique work
  • Pottery
  • Local art and crafts
• Jain caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri attract history lovers
• Temporary cottages for visiting saints
• Peak visiting hours: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Special Highlights of Khandagiri Mela 2026

• Celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Vishva Sanatan Vaidik Dharma Parishad
• Marks the 5,126th year of Kaliyuga
• Release of a special souvenir for the occasion
• No promotion of superstitious or unscientific practices

Final Thought

Khandagiri Mela 2026 is more than just a fair—it is a living celebration of Odisha’s spiritual depth, cultural richness, and ancient heritage. Set against the historic caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri, the mela offers a unique experience filled with devotion, culture, and tradition. Whether you are a devotee, tourist, or culture enthusiast, this vibrant festival in Bhubaneswar is truly worth visiting.