Bhubaneswar, Ap 14: Devotees across Odisha celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, coinciding with the auspicious Odia New Year. Temples and community centres are abuzz with preparations for a series of religious and cultural events.

In the morning, after the ritual of incense offerings, Lord Hanuman’s idol will be taken on a ceremonial procession around the city in a grand chariot. Devotees will participate in the Jagara, a traditional night vigil, while young wrestlers (Juana Toka) will demonstrate kushti exercises and other rituals in designated arenas.

Various temples will host special prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Hanuman, including recitations of the Ramcharitmanas and Hanuman Chalisa. The southern entrance of the Shri Mandir will see devotees offering homage at the sacred Nagavesha altar.

In addition, several organizations are coordinating collective celebrations to mark the Odia New Year, blending spiritual observances with cultural traditions.