Biennial Budhi Thakurani Jatra Begins in Berhampur
Berhampur: The biennial Maa Budhi Thakurani Jatra commenced with colourful grandeur and gaiety in Berhampur on Friday.
In a grand night-long procession, Maa Budhi Thakurani, the reigning deity of Berhampur, reached her traditional parental home at Desi Behera Sahi in Bada Bazar area of Berhampur at wee hours. This is her symbolic visit to Her paternal home.
This grand procession included the sound of ‘veera kahali’, ‘dhol-mahuri’ and ‘singha baja’ showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kalinga.Hundreds of people of all ages donned the disguise of mythological characters like Rama, Krishshna, Balaram, Parshuram, demons, Ravana, Kumbharna etc. as a ritualistic offering to the deity. Several devotees also took part in the procession in the garb of famous tiger dance of Ganjam
The festival started ceremoniously with the installation of Maa Budhi Thakurani at the temporary abode at Desi Behera Sahi at around 3:40 am.
