Cuttack: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday performed the traditional ‘Akhi Muthi Anukula’ ritual at the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Bidyadharpur on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, marking the ceremonial beginning of the agricultural season.
The State-level Farmers’ Day was also observed at the venue, where the Chief Minister attended as the chief guest along with Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and MP Bhartruhari Mahtab.
The programme began with soil worship in a devotional atmosphere. Following the rituals, Majhi tied a traditional head cloth (Pagadi) and symbolically sowed seeds in the field, initiating the farming activities for the season. He also held a plough as part of the customary agricultural rites associated with the festival, which holds special significance for farmers across the state.
On the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, preparations for the world-renowned Rath Yatra officially commenced in Puri with traditional rituals and ceremonies. The Rath Katha Anukula ritual, held in Srikhetra, marked the formal beginning of chariot construction for the annual festival.
Alongside Rath Yatra preparations, arrangements for the 21-day-long Chandan Yatra are nearing completion. As part of the festivities, the deities of Lord Jagannath will participate in the traditional Chapa Khela (boating festival) at Narendra Pushkarini.
Servitors have been finalising decorative elements for the boats, including intricate designs and symbolic features. Officials confirmed that preparations are almost complete, ensuring smooth conduct of the rituals.