Bhubaneswar, Oct 13: Conflicting dates in Odia calendars and almanacs have triggered confusion over Dussehra celebrations and government holidays in Odisha. While some calendars list October 20 for Dashami Puja, others indicate October 21, raising concerns among government employees. The discrepancy has also led to changes in the dates of Ravana Dahan and idol immersion.

According to some Odia calendars, Shashthi Puja will begin on October 16, followed by Saptami on October 17, Maha Ashtami on October 18, Navami on October 19 and Dashami on October 20. However, several almanacs place Vijayadashami on October 21.

In Cuttack, Shashthi Puja will begin on October 17, Dashami Puja will be held on October 21, and idol immersion is scheduled for October 22. Rourkela will follow a similar schedule, while Balasore is expected to conclude Dashami Puja on October 20.

In Berhampur, Durga Puja began on October 11 and is expected to continue until October 21, extending the celebrations to 11 days due to the Dashami tithi.

Government holiday schedule may change

The state government's existing holiday calendar lists holidays from October 17 to 20. If Vijayadashami is observed on October 21, government offices could remain open on the main festival day.

Amid growing concerns, a possible revision of the holiday schedule is being discussed. Under the proposed arrangement, October 19 would be a holiday for Maha Ashtami, October 20 for Navami and October 21 for Dashami, while October 18 would remain a general holiday.

The revision would preserve the planned four-day consecutive holiday period for government employees, starting Sunday instead of Saturday. However, the state government's official decision on any change to the holiday schedule is awaited.