Puri, Oct 7: The holy month of Kartika has officially begun today, marking the start of Kartik Purnima Brata. Thousands of devotees and Habishyalis flocked to the sacred city of Puri in Odisha early this Tuesday morning to take part in the revered rituals associated with this auspicious month.

To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, the Odisha government has made extensive preparations, ensuring the comfort and safety of more than 3,000 devotees at various Habishyali centers throughout Puri. These arrangements include lodging, food, and health services.

In addition to government support, several voluntary organizations in Puri have stepped in to offer their assistance, and a significant number of security personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order throughout the month-long event. The district administration has also made special provisions for devotees to visit the Srimandir for darshan of Lord Jagannath, partake in the distribution of Maha Prasad, and engage in religious activities such as listening to Kartik Mahatma and participating in Bhajan Kirtan at the temple.

Kartik Masa, one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar, begins after the month of Ashwin. This period is celebrated with several important festivals, including the five-day Diwali, Chhath Puja, and Kartik Purnima, which will culminate in another grand observance. The rituals of Kartik Brata, which begin today, include a holy dip in sacred ponds and the sea, followed by the performance of Radhadamodara Puja. Devotees will also receive the Maha Prasad of Lord Jagannath after their darshan.

The month of Kartik holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, with its various rituals and festivals bringing devotees closer to the divine. The ongoing preparations in Puri reflect the city’s deep-rooted connection to these sacred traditions and its commitment to welcoming pilgrims from across the country.

Tags: prameyanews Kartik Brata