Puri, Ap 20: Puri comes alive with festive fervor on the morning of Akshaya Tritiya. While the day is widely known across India for the Chandana Yatra and Rath Yatra, locals around Puri are especially familiar with the traditional “Ghadi Pathuli” ritual associated with this day.

For adults, it is a day of worship, while for children; it is a joyous occasion marked by gifts and treats. Mothers begin the day by performing the ritual with a sense of devotion, placing small clay “Ghadi Pathuli” at the base of their courtyards.

The clay pots are prepared, dried with lime, and decorated with colorful designs. During the ritual, these pots are filled with items chosen for children’s enjoyment. Traditionally, they included rice flakes, sugar treats, small toys, and fruits. Over time, the offerings have adapted to modern tastes, including pencils, notebooks, sketch pens, art supplies, toys, and chocolates.

After the ritual, the contents of the pots are distributed among children. Kids, carrying small bags, go from house to house, collecting their “Ghadi Pathuli” treats. In larger households, grand clay pots filled with a variety of sweets, toys, and luxury items are displayed for the occasion, bringing immense joy to the children who receive them.

The festival remains a cherished tradition in Puri, blending devotion, community spirit, and the simple happiness of giving.