Bhubaneswar, Nov 15: Holy Kartika Purnima and Danga Bhasha Utsav are celebrated across Odisha, while the historic Bali Yatra begins in Cuttack today. 

Kartika Purnima, a Hindu festival, marks the end of the holy month of Kartika and the sacred 'Panchaka' (the last five days of the month). 

Following tradition, people woke up early in the morning and floated boats, made of paper and banana tree skin, on the water of ponds, rivers, and canals.  The small boats were decked with diyas and betel. 

Boat floating marks Odias' rich tradition of maritime business. Centuries ago, Sadhabas (Odia Businessmen) used to sail to different countries such as Indonesia, Java, Sumitra, Borneo, and Bali to do business.  

After floating boats, people visited Shiva and other nearby temples and offered prayers to deities. 

Over a lakh devotees visited the Baba Dhabaleswar Temple at Manchswar in Cuttack. Besides offering prayers, they floated boats on the Mahanandi water. 

Like earlier years, Bali Yatra festival will begin today. All preparations for the grand festival are complete. The festival will be celebrated for eight days.