Bloodbath marks ‘Sulia Jatra’ in Bolangir

Bolangir: Despite awareness campaign by district administration opposing animal slaughter, tribals in Bolangir district today sacrificed hundreds of animals and birds at Khairaguda as part of a ritual during ‘Sulia Jatra’ today.

The sacrifice is believed to have been carried out to propitiate their presiding deity. Hundreds of animals and birds including goats, sheep, buffaloes, ducks, pigeons and roosters were sacrificed at Badakhala, the main Sulia shrine in Khairguda, Sanakhala in Kumuria, and in adjoining places.

The festival began with a grand procession where priests danced to the beating of drums and playing of tribal musical instruments. Later, the chief priest performed the ritual at the main shrine before carrying out the sacrifice.

The administration officials and police personnel reportedly remained mute spectators to the gory ritual. Three platoons of police were  deployed at the site to maintain law and order. The area was cordoned off and children were prevented from going to the place.

The festival is observed on the second Tuesday of Pousa month every year.