Odisha Governor Offers Prayers at Maa Samaleswari Temple, Visits Hirakud Dam on Mahalaya
Sambalpur: Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati and First Lady Jayashree Kambhampati visited the revered Maa Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur on the occasion of Mahalaya and offered prayers for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of Odisha.
During the visit, the Governor participated in special rituals at the temple, one of western Odisha’s most significant spiritual landmarks.
Mahalaya holds special religious importance as it marks the commencement of Devi Paksha ahead of Durga Puja celebrations.
Devotees thronged the temple premises to witness the sacred observances and seek the blessings of the presiding deity.
The Governor also had the opportunity to witness the deity adorned in the traditional Dhabalamukhi Besha, a special attire associated with the Mahalaya rituals.
The temple atmosphere was marked by devotion and festive fervour as pilgrims gathered from different parts of the region.
Earlier in the day, Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati and the First Lady visited the iconic Hirakud Dam built across the Mahanadi River.
During the visit, the Governor reviewed the reservoir and appreciated the dam’s contribution to irrigation, flood control, and power generation in Odisha.
The visit highlighted the Governor’s engagement with Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and key infrastructure assets while underscoring the significance of Mahalaya celebrations in the state.
