Athagarh, Mar 30: The three-day Basanti Durga Puja, which began from Ashokashtami, concluded in the villages of Gurudijhatia and Kotar under the Athagarh block. The celebrations witnessed devotees carrying the idol of the goddess over a distance of more than two kilometres, following an age-old tradition known as the Pahada Yatra.

This year marked the 80th edition of the Basanti Durga Puja procession in Gurudijhatia Panchayat. The festivities commenced with a Kalash Yatra, followed by the performance of the Vishwashanti Mahayagna. As per ritual, after the puja, devotees participate in the ceremonial procession of the goddess, offering her new clothes during the journey.

The atmosphere was vibrant with the continuous ringing of bells and devotional singing like Naam Sankirtan, with devotees arriving from far and wide. It is believed that wearing the clothes offered to the goddess brings family peace and bestows the merit of countless lifetimes. The goddess, revered as a manifestation of Agnidevi, is worshipped with deep devotion, and devotees firmly believe that sincere prayers during the procession fulfill their wishes.

The Basanti Durga Puja continues to be one of the most celebrated cultural and religious events in the Athagarh region, attracting devotees from neighbouring areas every year.