Bhadrak, July 2, 2025: The fifth annual festival of Shani Dev was celebrated with great fervor at Saramara in Odanga Panchayat, Bant Block, Bhadrak district. On Tuesday, the festivities commenced with the ceremonial fetching of 31 kalash (sacred pots) from the Pushkarini at Baliadi, followed by the establishment of the sacred ghat and the performance of puja rituals.
The rituals were led by Anand Chandra Raut, Sabitri Raut, Purna Chandra Raut, and Binapani Raut, who served as the principal organizers. The puja ceremonies were conducted by priests Padmanabh Panda, Krishna Chandra Padhi, and Narayan Padhi, ensuring the rituals were performed with utmost devotion.
The event saw active participation from community members, including Bhikari Nayak, Sanatan Patra, Shashikant Jena, Sukant Kumar Sahu, Narayan Nayak, Kaulas Bishwal, Narayan Bishwal, Arjun Jena, Naresh Jena, Gangadhar Nayak, Jitendra Jena, Babula Bishwal, Tapan Jena, Rajesh Bishwal, Ram Chandra Mahanti, Priyabrata Raut, Satya Prakash Raut, Amar Raut, Sudhir Raut, and others who contributed to the successful organization of the festival. The vibrant celebration underscored the community's deep reverence for Shani Dev and their commitment to preserving this annual tradition.
(Reported by Chandini Mohanty)
