Bhubaneswar, Oct 10: The city of Bhubaneswar is bustling with excitement as it prepares for the Durga Puja celebrations, featuring stunning decorations made from conch shells, flowers, and colorful lights. The elaborate decorative arches adorned with peacocks are sure to captivate the attention of the residents.
At the Sri Shri Mahadeb Committee Puja Mandap in Unit-1, a striking 75-foot-high and 80 –foot-wide arch to welcome devotees, along with a 16-foot statue of Goddess Parvati.
As the festivities began on Sashthi, the idol of the goddess was adorned with a beautiful crown, bangles, and other traditional ornaments. The ambiance was illuminated with vibrant lights, creating a visually stunning experience for attendees.
From Rajmahal Square to Capital Police Station, the streets leading to the mandap will be brightly lit, making the journey a spectacle in itself. The rituals were performed, including the traditional 'Chakshudaan' on the seventh day, followed by the Ashtami rituals led by women.
Delicious prasads such as ‘Anna’ and ‘dalma’ will be served on Ashtami, while the ninth day will feature 'charu anna', culminating in the special offering of ‘Khichdi’ on Dashami.
Arrangements have been made to serve prasad to 3,000 to 4,000 devotees, ensuring a delightful experience for all.
Additionally, stringent security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of all participants during this grand celebration.