Puri, Oct 18: With the commencement of the sacred Kartik month today, Habisyalis (elderly women who observe fasting during this period) across the State gathered in Puri to observe the month-long Kartik Brata and fast.
As per sources, the Habisyalis began their rituals with a holy dip in the pond, followed by the darshan of Lord Jagannath. They later performed the Raidamodar Puja near Brundabati.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida is scheduled to attend the ceremony this evening as the chief guest at Brundabati Niwas in Narendrakona.
Owing to the significance of this brata, large crowds of devotees have arrived in Puri. The state government has made extensive arrangements to accommodate 2,500 Habisyalis, ensuring their comfort throughout the observance. Special provisions have been made for the distribution of Mahaprasad, health services, and smooth darshan of the deities.
This year, registration for Habisyali accommodation began on October 6 and concluded on October 11.
To manage the large influx of devotees and avoid stampede-like situations at the 12th-century shrine, the temple administration has opened two entry gates—Singhadwara and Paschima Dwara—for regulated darshan. The remaining gates will be reserved for exit only. However, this restriction does not apply to temple servitors and their families.
