Bindu Sagar: Bhubaneswar's Sacred Lake

Bindu Sagar, also known as Bindu Sarovara or Ocean Drop Tank, is a highly revered lake in the heart of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Situated in the Old Town area, also known as Ekamra Kshetra, it lies to the north of the Lingaraj Temple and east of the Ananta Vasudeva Temple. This large water tank is central to the city's cultural and religious tourism. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created the lake by bringing water from all the holy rivers of India to quench the thirst of Goddess Parvati. The name Bindu Sagar, meaning 'Ocean Drop,' signifies that it contains drops of water from every holy river in India, making it a sacred site for pilgrims. Taking a dip in the Bindu Sagar is believed to cleanse the soul and is equivalent to visiting all the holy places in the nation. The water from the lake is used in various temple rituals and ceremonies. Bindu Sagar is surrounded by numerous ancient temples, including the Lingaraj Temple, Ananta Vasudeva Temple, Mukteswara Temple, and others. The lake is closely associated with the rituals of the Lingaraj Temple. During the annual Ashokastami festival, the main deity from the Lingaraj Temple is carried to Bindu Sagar for a ritual bath. The lake is a hub of festivities during religious festivals like Shivratri, Rama Navami, and Kartik Purnima.