Kartika Month Begins in Puri; Thousands of Habisiyalis Arrive for Sacred Habisha Rituals
Puri, Odisha: The holy month of Kartika commenced in Puri with deep religious fervour as thousands of devotees, particularly Habisiyalis, gathered in the pilgrim town to observe the sacred Habisha Brata.
The annual spiritual observance, considered one of the most auspicious periods in the Hindu calendar, has transformed the temple city into a hub of devotion and ritualistic worship.
Devotees from various parts of Odisha and neighbouring states have arrived in large numbers to participate in the month-long religious practices.
The Habisiyalis, many of whom are elderly women, will observe strict fasting, prayer, and spiritual discipline during the Kartika month, culminating on November 24.
To facilitate a smooth and comfortable stay for the pilgrims, the Odisha Government and Puri district administration have made extensive arrangements.
Around 2,400 Habisiyalis have been accommodated in designated camps equipped with lodging facilities, basic amenities, and traditional meals suitable for their religious observance.
Authorities have also implemented special measures at the Jagannath Temple to ensure orderly darshan.
Dedicated queues have been arranged for devotees, while safety barricades have been installed near temple tanks where pilgrims perform ritual bathing as part of the Kartika observance.
Appealing for dedicated service to the pilgrims, Dibya Jyoti Parida, Collector of Puri, urged volunteers and officials to extend wholehearted support to the visiting devotees.
Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened across the town.
As many as 15 police platoons have been deployed to regulate crowds, maintain law and order, and ensure the safety of devotees during the month-long festival.
Kartika month holds immense religious significance in Odisha, especially in Puri, where devotees believe that observing the Habisha Brata brings spiritual merit and divine blessings.
The annual congregation continues to underscore the enduring faith and cultural traditions associated with Lord Jagannath’s abode.
