Odisha Celebrates Vibrant Makar Sankranti with Devotion, Joy and Unity
Image Source: Internet
Bhubaneswar, Odisha - Thousands of people across Odisha on Wednesday took part in the ancient harvest festival of Makar Sankranti, a joyous celebration of the sun's movement northwards. The state's Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Maji, began the day by taking a holy dip in the Baitarani river in his home district of Keonjhar and paying respects at a Shiva temple. He expressed his hope that the festival would strengthen social unity and harmony in the state. Makar Sankranti, also known as the 'Festival of Kites,' marks the sun's transition towards the Tropic of Cancer and is believed to bring good health and prosperity. Thousands of devotees flocked to the Jagannath temple in Puri, where special rituals were performed throughout the day. The sibling deities of Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Devi Subhadra were adorned in the 'Makar Chourashi Besha,' a traditional attire for the festival. In Bhubaneswar, the Lingaraj temple was briefly disrupted by a dispute between two groups of servitors. Meanwhile, people gathered at the Chandrabhaga beach and the historic Sun Temple in Konark to witness the sunrise. In south Odisha, residents decorated their homes with vibrant 'rangoli' designs and organized community feasts to celebrate the occasion. Kite flying added a splash of color to the skies as children and adults alike participated in friendly competitions. Top officials, including Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik, extended their greetings to the people, wishing them joy, peace, and prosperity. As the people of Odisha celebrated Makar Sankranti with devotion and unity, the festival served as a reminder of the state's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
