Cuttack: The Khan Nagar-Khapuria Durga Puja Committee in Cuttack has constructed a gigantic pandal on the theme ‘Operation Sindoor’, a 30-foot-high arch that attracts the revellers and presents the power of Indian soldiers. Operation Sindoor was India’s strong response to Pakistan after the terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam.
The arch is a tribute to the bravery of Indian soldiers who launched the operation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Puja Committee, which has been worshipping Hara Parvati since 1952 and Maa Durga since 1962, has been making efforts to maintain its traditions.
The committee has made extensive arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Puja, including the distribution of saplings on the sixth day (Sasthi), the deployment of women volunteers on the eighth day (Mahastami) to facilitate women’s darshan, and cultural programmes by renowned Odisha artists and singers.
The committee has also arranged for ‘Dahi Pakhal’ prasad for devotees on the tenth day, Vijaya Dasami and has made arrangements for children from orphanages to visit the mandap with the help of the district administration.
The Khan Nagar Durga Puja Committee continues to be a major attraction in Cuttack, with its unique traditions and cultural programs. The Operation Sindoor theme adds a new dimension to the celebration, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.