Bhubaneswar, Oct 18: Odisha is witnessing religious fervour on Maha Ashtami as devotees throng Durga Puja pandals and Shakti Peeths across the state to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. Special rituals and traditional worship are being performed at prominent shrines, including Maa Sarala Temple in Jagatsinghpur and Maa Biraja Temple in Jajpur.

Special rituals at Maa Sarala Temple

At the Maa Sarala shrine in Jagatsinghpur, Maha Ashtami is being observed with special rituals and religious ceremonies. The occasion also marks the concluding day of the 16-day festival that began on Mula Ashtami.

Maa Sarala will be adorned in her divine Mahisha Mardini Besha, allowing devotees to witness the goddess in her powerful form. A large number of devotees are visiting the shrine to offer prayers and seek her blessings.

As part of the observances, Sandhi Puja will be performed at midnight. During the ritual, 108 pots of pana will be offered to the goddess as part of the traditional offerings.

Devotees believe the occasion holds special spiritual significance and offers an opportunity to pray for peace, prosperity and relief from difficulties.

Maha Ashtami at Maa Biraja Temple

Maha Ashtami is also being observed with devotion at the Maa Biraja Temple in Jajpur, one of Odisha's prominent Shakti Peeths. Devotees are gathering at the shrine to offer prayers and participate in the special religious observances.

The sacred day holds immense significance for devotees of Goddess Durga, who worship the divine mother and seek her blessings for their families and well-being.

Crowds gather at Durga Puja pandals

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Meanwhile, Durga Puja celebrations have intensified across Odisha, with pandals witnessing a steady rise in footfall. In Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, elaborate decorations, illuminated structures and artistic entrance gates are drawing devotees and visitors.

With large crowds expected at temples and puja pandals, organisers and the administration have strengthened security and crowd-management arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.

Maha Ashtami remains one of the most significant days of Durga Puja, marked by devotion, traditional rituals and the worship of Goddess Durga across Odisha.