Bhubaneswar: A special prayer and elaborate rituals were conducted at the sacred Ekamra Kshetra of Lord Lingaraj Temple early this morning, invoking divine blessings for the speedy recovery and good health of former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik.
The rituals
commenced around 8 am and were attended by leaders and workers of the Biju
Janata Dal (BJD), led by the party’s senior vice-president Debi Prasad Mishra.
The gathering reflected the collective concern and emotional solidarity of
lakhs of party members and supporters across Odisha.
Naveen
Patnaik, who is currently undergoing treatment for cervical arthritis at
Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, has been the focus of heartfelt
prayers and well-wishes from citizens and political colleagues alike.
“The
people of Odisha regard Naveen Babu not just as a political leader, but as the
head of our extended Odia family. His health and well-being are of utmost
importance to all of us,” said Debi Prasad Mishra, addressing the media outside
the temple. “We believe in the blessings of Lord Lingaraj and pray for his
swift recovery and return to full strength.”
The
temple precincts resonated with ancient hymns and chants, offered with deep
devotion. The mood was solemn yet hopeful, as thousands across the state joined
in spirit to wish for the recovery of a leader who has served the people of
Odisha for over two decades.