Ghadi Pathuli Puja in Puri Keeps Child‑Centric Tradition Alive on Akshaya Tritiya
Puri, April 20: While Akshaya Tritiya is widely celebrated for gold purchases and the commencement of Lord Jagannath’s chariot construction, Puri continues to uphold its unique Ghadi Pathuli Puja.
This tradition, deeply rooted in servitor and Brahmin households, places children at the heart of the festivities.
Mothers prepare earthen pots (Ghadi Pathuli) days in advance, coating them with lime, drying, and painting them with vibrant designs.
On the festival morning, these pots are filled with offerings — ranging from sweets and fruits to modern additions like toys, chocolates, and stationery — and placed at the courtyard tree for puja.
After prayers for their children’s well‑being, the pots’ contents are joyfully distributed among neighborhood children, who eagerly go door‑to‑door collecting their share.
The ritual blends devotion, community bonding, and childhood delight, making it a cherished cultural identity of Puri that thrives alongside larger Akshaya Tritiya observances.
