Bhubaneswar: Preparations for Durga Puja have reached their final stages across Odisha, with decorative pandals, illuminated streets and elaborate entrance gates creating a festive atmosphere in towns and cities. Organisers are making final arrangements as devotees prepare to welcome Goddess Durga and participate in the annual celebrations.
The traditional rituals at Durga Puja pandals are beginning with Shashthi Puja on Friday. Meanwhile, Shakti Peeths and other prominent temples across the state are observing their own traditional worship ceremonies.
Shashthi Puja Marks Beginning of Pandals’ Rituals
Shashthi Puja marks an important stage in the Durga Puja celebrations at community pandals. The rituals begin at the base of a bel tree, followed by the ceremonial invitation of Goddess Durga to the pandals.
As part of the traditional ceremonies, holy water is brought from rivers, and the eyes of the Goddess’s idols are painted. These rituals are followed by regular worship, formally beginning the puja ceremonies at the pandals.
With the rituals underway, devotees have started visiting pandals across Odisha to offer prayers and witness the celebrations. Puja committees have completed arrangements for the ceremonies and are preparing to welcome large numbers of visitors throughout the festive period.
Mahasaptami Puja Observed at Shakti Peeths
While Shashthi Puja is being performed at community pandals, Mahasaptami Puja is being observed at Shakti Peeths and other prominent shrines across Odisha.
These temples hold special significance during the Durga Puja period, attracting devotees who visit to seek the blessings of the Goddess. The rituals reflect the religious traditions associated with the worship of Goddess Durga across the state.
On Saturday, Mahasaptami rituals will also be performed at the community pandals. The clay idols of Goddess Durga and the sacred pots will be installed as part of the ceremonies.
Decorative Pandals and Lighting Enhance Festive Atmosphere
The festive spirit is visible across Odisha, with colourful lighting arrangements, decorative gates and elaborately designed pandals transforming public spaces and market areas.
Puja organisers have been working to complete the remaining preparations and ensure that visitors can participate in the celebrations. The decorations and illumination have added to the excitement as families and devotees begin visiting prominent puja venues.
Odisha Prepares for the Durga Puja Festivities
The beginning of the traditional rituals marks a significant phase of Durga Puja in Odisha. From ceremonial worship at community pandals to special prayers at Shakti Peeths, the celebrations bring together religious traditions and community participation.
As Mahasaptami approaches at the pandals, devotees are preparing to take part in the upcoming ceremonies and seek the blessings of Goddess Durga.
