Puri: Devotees gathered at the Puri Srimandir on Thursday to celebrate Paya Shraddha and Diwali, despite confusion over almanac dates.
Traditionally, the ritual honours ancestors, believing their spirits descend on Mahalaya and depart on Diwali. Devotees light kaunria sticks (jute sticks) to acknowledge their presence.
According to a Puri temple servitor, confusion surrounding the almanac dates led to differing celebrations: Kali Puja on October 31 and Paya Shraddha and Diwali on November 1. On Thursday morning, thousands gathered at the Srimandir for rituals and lamp-lighting.
Despite the confusion, the Pujapanda Nijog committee sent a letter to Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan stating that Diwali and Paya Shraddha celebrations at Srimandir will take place on November 1.
