Festivals / Odisha CM Waives Ground Rent for Puja Committees in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Oct 7: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved a waiver of ground rent for puja committees organising Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja and other festive events within the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) area during the ongoing festive season, officials said on Wednesday.

The decision is expected to provide financial relief to puja committees and cultural organisations involved in conducting major community celebrations across the State capital.

Cultural significance

According to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office, the waiver will cover grounds used for organising Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja, Ravan Podi, Bhasani Utsav and related cultural programmes.

The State government said the decision was taken in recognition of the social and cultural importance of these festivals and the enthusiastic participation of people during the festive season. The waiver is aimed at supporting community-based celebrations and encouraging wider public participation.

Specific period

The ground rent exemption will remain effective from October 17 to November 18, 2026, covering the peak festive period when several major religious and cultural events are held across Bhubaneswar.

Officials said the measure would ease the organisational burden on puja committees, many of which rely on public contributions and community support to conduct celebrations.

Appeal for responsible celebrations

Along with announcing the waiver, the Chief Minister urged puja committees to ensure that festivities are conducted in a peaceful, orderly and environmentally responsible manner.

The government has appealed to organisers to maintain law and order, follow prescribed guidelines and promote eco-friendly practices during celebrations.

The decision is expected to benefit a large number of puja committees in the BMC area as preparations gather momentum for one of the busiest festive periods of the year.