Puri: Amid confusion over the exact dates of Diwali and Kali Puja in Odisha, many people celebrated the festival of lights on Thursday while several others are celebrating it on Friday.
With the almanacs in the state mentioning different dates for Kali Puja and Diwali celebration, a confusion had emerged over the exact dates of the two festivals.
While some almanacs mentioned October 31 for Diwali and Kali Puja, others stated that Kali Puja will be performed on October 31 and Diwali on November 1.
As per practice, the dates and ‘muhurt’ (time) of starting any puja are calculated as per astronomical movements of stars and planets. This time is decided as per the sunrise and sunset and not English calendar.
Notably, Diwali is being celebrated at Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Friday. While some people had assembled outside the 12th century shrine on Thursday to observe the ritual, a large number of devotees gathered at the temple for Paya Shraddha and Diwali, on Friday.
Traditionally, the ritual honours ancestors, believing their spirits descend on Mahalaya and depart on Diwali. Devotees light kaunria sticks (jute sticks) to acknowledge their presence.
In view of confusion over the dates, the Pujapanda Nijog committee sent a letter to Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan stating that Diwali and Paya Shraddha celebrations at temple will take place on November 1. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has made elaborate arrangements for Diwali celebration on Friday.
Officials said police have tightened security to ensure a smooth and safe Diwali celebration.
According to Puri Superintendent of Police, three additional SPs, 11 DSPs, 18 Inspectors, and 26 platoons of force have been deployed to maintain law and order during the celebrations.
Diwali holds considerable significance in Puri because thousands converge outside Jagannath temple gate to light earthen lamps and offer lighted sticks to their forefathers as part of Paya Shradha which is also known as Badanadua Daka.
This ritual is believed to bring peace to the souls of the departed and earn blessings for their grandchildren.
Also Read: When To Celebrate Diwali & Kali Puja In Odisha? Almanac Expert Clarifies