Durga Puja Celebrations in Odisha: Maha Saptami and Ashtami Rituals at Pandals and Shakti Peeths
Odisha is witnessing an outpouring of devotion as Durga Puja celebrations reach their sacred peak. On Maha Saptami, pandals across the state came alive with rituals like Ghata Sthapana, Navapatrika Prabesha, Chakhyu Daan, and Praan Pratishtha—symbolising the descent of Goddess Durga to Earth.
Sacred chants echoed through mandaps as devotees gathered in large numbers to witness the divine invocation.
Simultaneously, Maha Ashtami rituals commenced at Odisha’s revered Shakti Peeths. At Maa Biraja temple in Jajpur, devotees thronged for darshan, while Maa Tarini in Ghatagaon dazzled in her Suna Besha (Golden attire).
In Jhankada, Jagatsinghpur, Maa Sarala was adorned in Mahishamardini Besha, representing her triumph over Mahishasura.
Special offerings like Nua Chuda and Manda Pitha were made, with rituals such as Surya Puja and Chandi Patha performed from early morning till late night.
A sacrificial ceremony is scheduled for the wee hours of Maha Ashtami, continuing the tradition that has been upheld for decades.
The celebrations reflect Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage and the unwavering faith of its people in Maa Durga, blending sacred customs with vibrant community participation.
