Patnagarh, Jan 7: Thousands of devotees gathered at Sulia Peeth to offer traditional sacrifices of lamb, goat, chicken, flowers, milk, and coconuts to the Sulia deity on occasion of Sulia Jatra.
The sacred site turned red with the blood of sacrificed animals, as per the age-old customs.
To ensure law and order during the festival, authorities deployed two platoons of police at Sulia Peeth, where large crowds assembled.
The festival, observed on the first Tuesday of the lunar month of Paush Amavasya, holds immense significance for the Kandha tribal community.
Celebrations began early Tuesday morning, with tribals arriving at Sulia Peeth in their traditional attire.
Processions carrying traditional weapons were seen as devotees made their way from Khairgura Sulia Temple and Kumuria Deheri’s house. Rituals commenced with offerings and the sacrifice of a black chicken and pigeons at the Deheri.
A unique aspect of the festival involves cooking prasad -a sacred offeringin bamboo tubes, using rice, jaggery, and ghee.
The Sulia Jatra reflects the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual heritage of the region, preserving centuries-old traditions amidst modernity.
