Bhubaneswar, Oct 10: The whole city seems to have been lit up, there is festive fervor in the air as Durga Saptami in Odisha is being celebrated with much enthusiasm.
Maha Sapami is being observed at the mandaps whereas it is Astami in the Durga peethas or temples. The devotees are gathering in temples and mandaps to catch a glimpse of Maa Durga.
Security has been tightened by Commissionerate Police to keep an eye on miscreants during the puja. 31 platoons police force will be deployed. The Commissionerate Police has given special attention to the traffic regulations and specified various routes.
Maa Sarala Temple, Jagatsinghpur
Across various Shakti Peeths, the sacred Mahashtami is being celebrated at Maa Sarala Temple, Jagatsinghpur. Notably, the goddess will be adorned in her Mahishasura Mardini form, with a ceremonial offering of 108 earthen pots and special prayers during the night.
Maa Biraja Temple, Jajpur
Devotees have gathered in large numbers for darshan of the deity at Maa Biraja Temple of Jajpur. A homa is taking place near the goddess, with plans for a grand ceremonial bath later tonight, followed by the installation of a kalash (sacred pot). Simultaneously, the annual Rath Yatra at Maa Biraja temple is also underway, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
Jagannath Temple, Puri
Additionally, at the Puri Srimandir, Mahashtami Puja is being observed with reverence, involving rituals like chanting of mantras, creating a deeply spiritual environment across all Shakti Peeths. Devotees are also receiving blessings from the goddess Bimala and visiting 26 other shrines in the city for blessings.
