Nuapada: A centuries-old tradition of devotion and royal heritage is being observed at Khariar in Odisha’s Nuapada district, where special worship of Maa Raktambari, the guardian deity of the Khariar royal family’s fort, is underway with the sacred Sharadiya Shodasha Upachara rituals during Dashahara.
The special puja, which began on October 12, follows a distinctive tradition associated with the goddess, culminating in a grand procession on Vijaya Dashami, when two ceremonial chhatras (sacred canopies) accompany the divine powers during a nagar parikrama (circumambulation of the town). The rare ritual is considered a unique feature of the goddess’s worship in Odisha.
The observances begin on Mahalaya, when the deity, accompanied by her ceremonial chhatra from her own peetha (sacred seat), enters the temple at midnight. The rituals continue from Pratipada to Navami, marking the nine days of Navaratri, when devotees visit the shrine to seek the goddess’s blessings.
The celebrations reach their high point on Vijaya Dashami, the tenth day, when Maa Raktambari takes part in a town-wide procession, offering devotees an opportunity to seek her darshan and blessings. The ceremonial procession, featuring the twin chhatras, reflects a distinctive religious custom deeply rooted in the region’s cultural heritage.
Local tradition also associates the goddess with a history of solemn ritual observances. According to the account, when Maa Raktambari was brought from Palama Gad to Khariar, animal sacrifices were offered at every step along the route.
The annual worship thus combines Shakti devotion, royal traditions and distinctive ceremonial practices, keeping alive a religious heritage closely associated with Khariar and its people.
