Odisha Durga Puja 2026: Shashthi Rituals Begin Amid Grand Celebrations Across State
Bhubaneswar: A wave of devotion and celebration has gripped Odisha as Durga Puja festivities entered a significant phase with the observance of Shashthi Puja on Friday.
Elaborately decorated pandals, dazzling lighting arrangements, and religious ceremonies have transformed cities and towns across the state into vibrant centres of worship.
As per tradition, rituals associated with the invocation of Goddess Durga began with sacred ceremonies conducted near the Bel (Bael) tree.
Priests performed customary rites to ceremonially welcome the Goddess to the pandals, marking the beginning of the main Durga Puja celebrations.
Special arrangements have been made for the Chakshudaan ritual, during which the eyes of the idol are ceremonially opened using sacred water brought from holy rivers.
The ritual is regarded as a crucial step before the commencement of the main worship.
Preparations are also underway for Maha Saptami, when the idol of Goddess Durga and the sacred Ghata will be installed amidst Vedic chants and religious observances.
Across Odisha, puja committees have left no stone unturned in decorating pandals with artistic themes, colourful illumination, and ornate gateways.
Markets and commercial centres are witnessing heavy footfall as devotees shop for festive essentials and visit pandals with family and friends.
Several prominent Shakti Peeths and temples dedicated to the Goddess are also witnessing a surge in devotees offering prayers for peace, prosperity, and well-being.
With the arrival of Shashthi, Durga Puja celebrations have officially begun in earnest, setting the stage for the grand festivities that will continue over the coming days.
