Maha Kartika Brata begins in Puri, 2,500 Habishyalis join month-long observance

26 Oct 2026, 02:56 by Anustupa Mishra · KalingaTV

Puri: The month-long Maha Kartika Brata commenced in Puri on Monday, with around 2,500 Habishyalis gathering at three designated centres to observe the traditional religious rituals.

The devotees began their observance early in the morning by taking holy baths in sacred temple tanks and undertaking a sankalpa, or solemn religious vow.

The women observing the Habisha Brata will continue their spiritual practices throughout the month of Kartika.

As part of the daily rituals, they will worship Rai-Damodar at the base of the sacred Tulsi altar, known as Chaura, and participate in devotional activities.

The Puri district administration has made arrangements to facilitate the observance across all three Habishyali centres.

Special provisions have been made to enable the devotees to have darshan of Lord Jagannath and partake of the revered Mahaprasad.

Throughout the month, the centres are expected to host daily bhajans, kirtans and other religious activities.

The participating women expressed happiness over joining the Habishyali scheme introduced by the state government, which provides facilities for devotees undertaking the traditional Kartika observance.

The Habishyali tradition holds particular significance during the holy month of Kartika, when devotees follow prescribed food practices and engage in prayer, worship and other acts of devotion.

Maha Kartika Brata begins in Puri, 2,500 Habishyalis join month-long observance

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