Puri, Nov 4 (UDN): In a major step towards ensuring a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling Kartika Brata for devotees, the Odisha government has sanctioned Rs 3.30 crore for accommodation and other essential facilities for Habishyalis staying in the holy town of Puri.
Representational Image
The financial approval by the state Culture Department comes as thousands of elderly women from different parts of Odisha have converged on the pilgrim town to observe the month-long religious ritual dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
The sanctioned amount will primarily be utilised to strengthen arrangements at Habishyali centres, ensuring that devotees can perform their religious observances without facing difficulties during their stay.
Accommodation, Mahaprasad And Special Darshan
The facilities being provided to Habishyalis include accommodation, arrangements for darshan of Lord Jagannath, Mahaprasad and opportunities to participate in devotional activities such as bhajans, kirtans and other cultural programmes.
Special attention is being given to the comfort and convenience of elderly women, many of whom travel considerable distances to spend the sacred month in Puri.
The arrangements are aimed at providing a safe and supportive environment where devotees can concentrate on their spiritual practices while receiving necessary assistance throughout their stay.
Why Kartika Brata Holds Special Significance
Kartika, regarded as one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar, carries immense religious significance in Odisha, particularly in Puri.
Every year, thousands of elderly women, widows and other devotees observe Kartika Brata with deep devotion. Many of them undertake the traditional Habisa rituals, including worshipping the Tulsi plant, performing Radha-Damodar Puja and visiting the Shree Jagannath Temple.
Those observing the month-long Habisa follow a strict dietary routine, traditionally eating a single meal a day and avoiding certain vegetables, including brinjal, gourds and several other food items.
For many devotees, staying in Puri during Kartika is not merely a religious practice but a deeply cherished spiritual experience. The opportunity to worship Lord Jagannath, participate in devotional gatherings and consume Mahaprasad makes the annual pilgrimage especially significant.
Focus On Devotee Welfare
With a large number of Habishyalis arriving in Puri every year, managing accommodation, food, sanitation and other essential services remains an important administrative responsibility.
The allocation of Rs 3.30 crore is expected to support the arrangements and ensure that elderly devotees receive the assistance they need during the observance.
For the Habishyalis, the month-long stay in Puri represents faith, discipline and an enduring connection with Lord Jagannath. The government’s financial support is intended to make this sacred journey more comfortable and accessible for the women who travel to the pilgrim town to fulfil their religious commitments.
