THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, MARCH 27, 2026

The spirit of devotion filled the air across Odisha on Friday as thousands of devotees thronged temples to celebrate the sacred festival of Ram Navami, commemorating the birth of Lord Rama. Major shrines, including the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri and Ram Mandir in Bhubaneswar, witnessed an overwhelming turnout of devotees offering prayers and participating in religious rituals with deep faith and fervour.

The festive atmosphere was complemented by extensive security arrangements across the state to ensure peaceful celebrations. Authorities heightened surveillance particularly in districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack and Sambalpur, which had witnessed disturbances in the past. Quick response teams were strategically deployed in sensitive pockets, while drones and CCTV cameras monitored processions and gatherings to maintain vigilance.

Cuttack remained under special focus following last year’s Dussehra-related tensions. More than 30 platoons of police forces, supported by CRPF personnel, were stationed across the city. Over 300 CCTV cameras were installed along major routes, marketplaces and congregation points to ensure seamless crowd management and public safety.

Flag marches were conducted in key localities including Dargha Bazar, Choudhury Bazaar, Dolamundai and Buxi Bazaar to instil confidence among residents and maintain communal harmony. Senior police officials emphasised that elaborate arrangements had been put in place for effective traffic regulation and crowd control to prevent any untoward incidents.

 “We have ensured robust law and order mechanisms, efficient traffic management, and effective crowd control measures during the festival. Officers are vigilant and taking proactive steps to prevent any untoward incidents,” said IGP (Central Range) Satyajit Naik.

DIG (Eastern Range) Pinak Mishra said that Bhadrak and Balasore were identified as sensitive districts, where more than 40 platoons along with CAPFs were deployed. Authorities also kept close watch on social media platforms while continuing confidence-building flag marches.

Extending greetings on the auspicious occasion, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik wished people peace, harmony and prosperity.