The annual procession, steeped in religious fervour and cultural tradition, draws devotees from Odisha and neighbouring States

 

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHAWANIPATNA, OCTOBER 19, 2026

Thousands of devotees thronged Bhawanipatna in Odisha’s Kalahandi district on Monday to witness the annual Chhatar Yatra of Maa Manikeswari, one of the region’s most significant religious and cultural events. The procession concluded amid religious fervour and massive public participation, reaffirming the deep-rooted faith of devotees in the presiding deity.

The ceremonial procession began at Jenakhal, on the outskirts of Bhawanipatna, at 5 a.m. and reached the Maa Manikeswari Temple at 7.44 a.m. Thousands of devotees lined the route to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess as the decorated Chhatar, or ceremonial umbrella, made its way towards the temple.

The festival attracts devotees not only from different parts of Odisha but also from neighbouring States, including Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reflecting the wider religious appeal of the centuries-old tradition.

The rituals associated with the yatra began on the night of Maha Ashtami at the Maa Manikeswari Temple. Subsequently, the movable symbol of the deity was taken to Jenakhal, where the prescribed rituals were performed in the early hours of Monday. Ceremonial sacrifices preceded the commencement of the procession.

Adorned with colourful cloth, flowers and garlands, the Chhatar was carried towards the temple amid traditional music and dance performances. The procession, marked by the collective participation of devotees, formed the centrepiece of the annual observance.

The district administration and police made elaborate arrangements to regulate the crowds and ensure the smooth conduct of the festival. Dedicated parking facilities were provided at several locations, including the college ground, DIET ground, Dayanidhi Chowk, Hill Town, Police School and Railway Chowk.

To minimise traffic congestion in the town, light and heavy vehicles were directed to use the bypass during the festival.

For devotees of Maa Manikeswari, the Chhatar Yatra is more than an annual religious observance. It is an integral part of Kalahandi’s cultural identity, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared expression of faith and tradition. The large turnout once again underscored the enduring significance of the goddess in the religious and social life of the region.