Kartika Brata / Odisha Government approves Rs 3.30 crore for 2,600 Habishyalis, free accommodation and Mahaprasad

Puri, Nov 5: The Odisha government has significantly expanded arrangements for Habishyalis observing the holy Kartika Brata in Puri this year, approving a budget of Rs 3.30 crore for their accommodation, food and other essential facilities. Around 2,600 women devotees are being provided with free accommodation, Mahaprasad and special arrangements for Lord Jagannath's darshan during the month-long religious observance.

According to the estimated expenditure, the government is spending approximately Rs 12,692 per Habishyali for the month-long facilities.

The Odisha Culture Department has approved the expenditure to ensure better arrangements across three Habishyali camps in Puri. This year, around 2,600 Habishyalis have been accommodated at three designated camps (Brundabati, the Municipal Corporation Kalyan Mandap and the Railway Tourist Complex). The facilities include free accommodation, meals, Mahaprasad and other essential services throughout the Kartika month. Special arrangements have also been made to facilitate their visit to the Shree Jagannath Temple.

From lift facilities to temple visits, volunteers and support staff have been deployed to assist the elderly women at every stage. Additional buses have also been arranged to ensure smooth transportation for devotees seeking darshan of Lord Jagannath.

Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida said the administration has made extensive arrangements to ensure the comfort, convenience and safety of the Habishyalis.

With an increase in the number of Habishyalis, the administration has strengthened its support system this year. Additional volunteers have been deployed, while special medical teams, ambulances, fire services personnel and sanitation workers have been assigned to the camps to address emergencies and maintain cleanliness.

A special identification and security arrangement has also been introduced through Tyvek security wristbands. These bands carry the identity details of the Habishyalis and the name of their respective camps, for easy identification and assistance.

Apart from accommodation and food, the Habishyalis are being provided with free Mahaprasad and special facilities for visiting the Jagannath temple. Evening cultural programmes and devotional bhajans have also been organised at the camps.

With an increased budget, stronger security measures and additional support services, the Odisha government and Puri district administration are aiming to make the month-long Kartika Brata experience more comfortable and convenient for the 2,600 Habishyalis.