Balangir, Jan 16: Sulia Jatra, one of the major tribal festivals of western Odisha, began with pomp and gaiety in Khairguda village of Balangir district.

On the occasion, the tribal people took out processions with traditional weapons. The mass sacrifice of animals has reportedly taken place amid the absence of stricture by the district administration. 

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According to the reports, thousands of birds and animals, including goats, sheep, buffaloes, ducks, pigeons, and hens, were sacrificed at Bada Khala in Khairguda and Sana Khala in Kumuria village amid tight security arrangements. 

People believe that offering the blood of animals and birds to Sulia, their traditional deity, brings a good harvest resulting in prosperity and happiness to their families and the community. 

To maintain the law and order situation during the festival, two platoons of police force have been deployed.

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