Habisyalis confused over commencement of Kartika Brata as almanacs show different dates in Odisha

The habisyalis in Odisha are in confusion about the start of ‘Kartika Brata’ this year.

As per sources, habisyalis are not yet sure whether to start the much-awaited ‘Kartika Brata’ on October 17 or October 18 as different calendars and almanacs are suggesting different dates for the start of the month-long holy ritual.

As per different calendars and almanacs, Kumar Utsaba and Gajalaxmi Puja are coinciding on the same date and that is on October 16. As per the age-old tradition, Kartika Brata starts after Kumar Purnima. However, there has been difference in the dates of the celebration of Kumar Purnima in the State and the celebration of the festival at Srimandir in Puri. As a result, habisyalis are confused on which date they will start Kartika Brata.

Meanwhile, Jagannath culture expert and astrologer Padmanava Tripathy said Kartika Brata will start from October 18.

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“There has been confusion over Kartika Brata due to the mention of different dates in different calendars and almanacs. ‘Sankalpa’ for Kartika Brata will start on October 18 which will fall a day after Kumara Purnima,” said Tripathy.