Devi Shyama Kali is being worshiped at nine Mandaps (Temporary Altars) at Charampa in Bhadrak city now. The celebrations started on October 31 and will continue till November 8. The nine-day festival has not only made locals happy but also given small retailers a chance to earn a good profit.
Attractive Torans (gates) and light decorations have remained major attractions for lakhs of people. People of Bhadrak and outside the district have flocked to witness the Kali Puja celebrations.
Marvelously built Maa Kali idols and idols of other gods and goddesses, based on Puran themes, have created an atmosphere of devotion at each Puja Mandap.
Meena Bazaar, food parks, and various swings have attracted the children the most.
"We moved various mandaps and offered prayers to Maa Kali. We enjoyed a lot as we relished tasty foods and bought household articles," said a Puja reveller.
Bhadrak City DSP Anshuman Dwivedi said 24 platoons of police force have been deployed to ensure an incident-free Kali Puja this year. CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic places to stop theft and pickpocketing. Police officers from DSP level to the Constables have been deployed. Police officers are also moving in civil dresses to nab looters and other miscreants.
Notably, Kali Puja celebrations were stopped in Bhadrak because of Covid pandemic for about three years. However, the festival is being conducted in a grand way since last year.
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