Special Arrangements for Devotees During Upcoming Anla Navami Festival
Sakhigopal: 17.10.2024
A preparatory meeting for the upcoming Anla Navami festival was recently held at the Panchasakha Library in Sakhigopal. This meeting marked the first official discussion for the second-largest mass festival of Puri district. Among the key points discussed was ensuring a well-organized darshan of Goddess Radha in her unique Odiaani Besha (traditional attire).
The meeting focused on providing timely rituals, structured darshan, and ensuring all essential facilities for the large number of devotees expected during the festival. A long-standing issue concerning cremation grounds and guest accommodations for temple servitors (Sebayats) was brought up by Pratap Kumar Mahapatra, Secretary of the Servitors’ Association, and Vice President Sanjay Nanda. The servitors clearly stated that unless their longstanding issues are resolved, they may withdraw their cooperation during the Anla Navami celebrations. In response, the local MLA, the Sub-Collector, and the Assistant Commissioner gave their assurance that these issues would be addressed promptly.
This year, Anla Navami will be celebrated on November 10, followed by the observance of Bada Ekadashi on the 12th. On the day of Anla Navami, devotees will get the rare opportunity to worship the sacred Anla tree and have Paada Darshan (sight of the divine feet) of Goddess Radha in her Odiaani Besha, an occasion available only once a year.
The meeting also discussed implementing special rituals and darshan schedules, keeping in view the massive influx of devotees. The MLA advised that all departments coordinate efficiently to manage the crowds and ensure safety and smooth functioning. Topics of discussion included road repair, decorative lighting, drinking water supply, medical services, and special arrangements for the elderly.
Additionally, it was decided that CCTV cameras would be installed inside and outside the temple premises to monitor all activities and enhance security. The meeting was presided over by MLA Om Prakash Mishra and attended by Sub-Collector Gopinath Kumar, Additional Endowment Commissioner Shishir Kumar Sahoo, Tehsildar Alok Dehuri, BDO Lipsa Ray, Executive Officer of Sakhigopal Temple Bishwabas Tripathy, Satyabadi IIC Umesh Chandra Swaain, local Sarpanch, members of the Temple Servitors’ Association, and officials from all related departments.
