Puri: The holy month of Kartika has officially commenced, transforming the sacred city of Puri into a vibrant spiritual hub. Thousands of elderly women devotees, known as Habisiyalis, have arrived in Srikhetra Puri to observe the month-long fasting and rigorous spiritual rituals (Habisha Brata), which will run through November 24.
Recognising the immense religious significance of the month, the Odisha state government and the Puri district administration have rolled out elaborate arrangements to ensure a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling stay for the visiting devotees. Approximately 2,400 Habisiyalis have been selected and accommodated in dedicated camps across the town, where they are being provided with essential amenities, lodging, and wholesome traditional food.
To ease the spiritual journey for the elderly women, special logistical and security measures have been implemented. The district administration has arranged a dedicated queue system for smooth darshan of Lord Jagannath at the Srimandir. Additionally, barricades have been erected at sacred temple tanks to ensure safe ritualistic bathing.
Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida has urged local volunteers to look upon the service of the Habishyali mothers as a sacred duty, emphasising community support and hospitality.
On the security front, the police administration has left no stone unturned. Central Range IG confirmed that 15 platoons of the police force have been deployed across Srikhetra to maintain law and order, regulate crowd movement, and guarantee the absolute safety of all pilgrims throughout the month-long observance.