Bhawanipatna (Kalahandi): Thousands of devotees gathered in Bhawanipatna in Odisha’s Kalahandi district on Monday to witness the annual Chhatar Yatra of Maa Manikeswari, which concluded amid religious fervour and massive public participation.
The ceremonial procession began at Jenakhal at 5 am and reached the Maa Manikeswari Temple at 7.44 am, with devotees lining the route to seek the blessings of the presiding deity.
The Chhatar Yatra is one of the most significant religious events in Kalahandi and attracts devotees from across Odisha and neighbouring states, including Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal.
The rituals began on the night of Maha Ashtami at the Maa Manikeswari Temple. Later, the deity’s movable symbol was taken to Jenakhal, on the outskirts of Bhawanipatna.
Early on Monday, rituals and sacrifices were performed at Jenakhal before the ceremonial procession commenced.
The decorated Chhatar, adorned with colourful cloth, flowers and garlands, was carried towards the temple amid traditional music and dance performances. Thousands of devotees gathered along the procession route to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess.
The district administration and police made elaborate arrangements to manage the large gathering and ensure the smooth conduct of the festival.
Dedicated parking facilities were arranged at several locations, including the college ground, DIET ground, Dayanidhi Chowk, Hill Town, Police School and Railway Chowk.
Light and heavy vehicles were directed to use the bypass to ease traffic congestion in the town during the festival.
The annual religious event holds immense significance for devotees of Maa Manikeswari, who regard the Chhatar Yatra as an important part of the region’s religious and cultural traditions.
