Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: The Odia Kartik month commenced on Sunday with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurating the Habishyali Sibir for Habishyalis gathered in Puri via a video conference on this auspicious occasion.
The Chief Minister extended his warm wishes to the devotees observing fasting during this sacred month, saying, "May you fast with deep devotion and inner peace. Seek the blessings of the Lord, for if you are blessed, all of Odisha will be blessed."
He underscored the importance of the Kartik month as a time of devotion and sanctity, expressing his belief that the Habishyalis would joyfully observe the Kartik Brat during this month.
The Chief Minister assured that comprehensive arrangements have been made for the convenience of the women, with provisions for over 3,000 mothers, including accommodation, participation in rituals, and partaking in Mahaprasad. He also emphasized the district administration's readiness to cater to their needs.
Present at the event, Culture Minister Ashwini Patra affirmed that all necessary facilities had been made accessible to women in alignment with the Chief Minister's vision, with support from the district administration, temple administration, and volunteers.
Sports Minister Tusar Kanti Behera praised the Chief Minister for his role as a trailblazer in women-centric welfare initiatives, commending Odisha's leadership in women's empowerment under his strong guidance.
During the program, prominent Habishyalis, including Ahalya Acharya of Cuttack, Parvati Harijan of Nabarangpur, and Radha Devi Panda of Ganjam, shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the Chief Minister's provision of accommodation, meals, and devotional activities during Kartik Brat. They extended their heartfelt wishes for the Chief Minister's good health and a long life.
The event was overseen by VK Pandian, Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha.
Worth mentioning, during the Kartik month in Puri, devotees from across the state gather to observe Kartik Vrat. Recognizing their needs, the Chief Minister initiated the Habishyali Yojana in 2016, and a seven-story accommodation building named Bandavati Residence has been constructed for their use since last year.
