Maa Budhi Thakurani Yatra Kicks Off in Berhampur: A Cultural Extravaganza Awaits!

Celebration of Tradition in Berhampur

Berhampur: The renowned Maa Budhi Thakurani Yatra, a significant cultural event in southern Odisha, officially began early Friday morning and will run until April 28.

The festival commenced with the traditional arrival of Maa Budhi Thakurani, the city's revered deity, at her father's residence on Desibehera Street, following a time-honored custom.

P Durga Prasad Desibehera, acknowledged as the Goddess's father, along with other notable figures, participated in a ceremonial procession on Thursday to invite the deity to the festivities.

At midnight, they returned with a basket containing a garland of Itala (Ita Malli) flowers, which was then placed in a temporary shrine set up in front of Desibehera's home.

The 'ghata parikrama' (the procession of the earthen pot), a highlight of the festival, is set to commence on the third day of the Yatra, as noted by Desibehera, the event's organizer.

To ensure safety and order, extensive security measures have been implemented, including the establishment of a temporary police control room on Desibehera Street.

On the inaugural day, over 300 police officers of various ranks were deployed, with at least six platoons assigned for subsequent days, according to Berhampur SO Saravana Vivek M.

Berhampur's mayor, Sanghamitra Dalei, announced that 80 sanitation workers have been appointed to uphold cleanliness, as the event draws thousands of visitors from across the state.