Bolangir: The annual Sulia Yatra began with much fervour in Bolangir district today.
Like every year, hundreds of animals such as goat and buffalo will be sacrificed during the celebration at Khairguda village under Tusura police station in the district. On Saturday, the District Adivasi Kalyan Sangh and the Milita Sulia Puja Committee had announced to continue with their age-old practice of animal sacrifice in the festival.
The festival began with a huge procession taken out by large number tribals. Holding traditional weapons, the tribals took out a rally and reached the festival site. The Nisi Puja was performed last night. On the other hand, the district administration has made elaborate security arrangements to avoid any unpleasant incident during the festival.
Notably, the Sulia Jatra has been observed by tribals at Badkhala near Khairguda village on the second Tuesday of Pausha month as per Hindu calendar. Tribals of the district advocate that they have been observing this practice since long time and support sacrifice of animals during the celebration.