Dhenkanal: Across Odisha, devotees gather at Shakti Peeths to worship the sacred feminine energy as part of Navaratri Puja, also known as Nabadinatmaka puja. This revered festival transforms Shakti shrines into vibrant hubs of spiritual fervour.
Amidst the numerous Shakti shrines, one puja mandap stands out for its distinctiveness. Located at Radha Krushna Bazaar in the Dhenkanal district, this mandap hosts Navaratri puja, breaking the mold of traditional Shakti worship at Shakti Peeths.
As Navaratri Puja unfolds, the Radha Krushna Bazaar mandap comes alive with intricately crafted idol of Goddess Durga, resplendent decorations, soulful devotional songs and traditional rituals. Devotees throng the mandap, seeking blessings and spiritual rejuvenation. The air resonates with chants and prayers, invoking the divine feminine power.
Without exaggeration, it can be said that this extraordinary celebration at Radha Krushna Bazaar embodies the essence of Navaratri Puja.
As per reports, 54 women devotees carried out a procession (kalas yatra) from Bara Joda to the puja mandap, marking the beginning of Navaratri festivities which symbolizes the worship of Goddess Durga’s various forms. The puja schedule of nine days includes Surya puja, Dwarapala puja, Mandala puja, Saptachandi ahuti and sodasa upachara puja.
On the seventh day, the main puja features 56 bhogs (food offerings) to the Goddess, followed by distribution among devotees. The evening aarti holds the special significance of the Navaratri puja.
