Durga Puja 2025: Bhadrak’s Nilakanthapur keeps unique ‘Jhuna’ ritual alive

As the festive air reverberates with chants and celebrations across Odisha, one sacred corner stands out for its deeply rooted and distinct tradition, Nilakanthapur - nestled in the heart of Bhadrak town.

Also Read: Vibrant Maha Navami rituals bring Odisha’s Durga Puja pandals alive with devotion

Here, devotees offer prayers to Goddess Mahamayi not merely with flowers and rituals, but with a humble and symbolic gift—‘jhunā’ (benzoin resin. This unique practice sets the shrine apart from the usual grandeur seen elsewhere.

Another highlight is the lighting of 108 oil diyas (lamps), a sacred act performed by devotees to seek blessings or express gratitude to the Goddess. This age-old ritual draws large crowds from far and wide, especially during the festive season.

Despite the growing influence of modern celebrations, Nilakanthapur continues to uphold its rich spiritual heritage, where simplicity meets profound faith.

The air was charged with devotion and festivity across Odisha as devotees thronged Durga Puja pandals on Maha Navami. The rhythmic tolling of bells and resonant sound of conch shells echoed through the pandals, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

While Maha Navami rituals were underway, preparations for Dasami Puja continued at the altars, blending celebration with solemn worship. The chanting of Vedic mantras and the recitation of Chandi Path reverberated across the mandaps, leaving devotees spellbound.

Crowds gathered in large numbers, eager to catch a glimpse of Goddess Durga and receive Her blessings. The pandals buzzed with energy, showcasing the unique confluence of faith, culture, and community participation.

“Durga Puja is observed here as per Bengali traditions. There is a belief that those who offer jhuna to the Goddess have their wishes fulfilled. By offering jhuna, it is believed, childless couples are blessed with a son,” a member of the organising committee said.