Athmallik, Oct 21: Vijayadashami was celebrated with great pomp and devotion in Athmallik on Monday, while Dussehra celebrations at Durga Puja pandals continued on Tuesday.

A massive gathering of devotees was witnessed at various Durga Puja pandals across Athmallik on Monday. The day was particularly significant as the presiding deity of Athmallik, Maa Maheswari, was worshipped on the occasion of Vijayadashami.

As part of the traditional rituals, the Goddess came out of her temple in a grand procession to tour the town. Residents welcomed the deity by lighting lamps and placing sacred pots (kalash) on the verandas of their homes.

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As Maa Maheswari’s procession moved out of the temple with traditional pomp and grandeur, the entire town witnessed a festive atmosphere, with large numbers of devotees gathering to seek the Goddess’s blessings.

This year, the Kadapa performance from Kalahandi was a special attraction during the Goddess’s procession.

Dussehra is considered a festival of pride, unity and brotherhood in Athmallik. This year, the celebrations witnessed an even larger turnout of devotees, reflecting the deep-rooted faith and cultural traditions of the region.

Social worker Arjun Sahu shared his views on the celebrations and highlighted the festival’s significance for the people of Athmallik.