Dhenkanal Begins 10-Day Gajalakshmi Puja With Grand Celebrations

The historic Gajalakshmi Puja began in Dhenkanal on Sunday, coinciding with Kumar Purnima. The 10-day festival, celebrated since 1923, will conclude with idol immersion on November 4.

Goddess Gajalakshmi is being worshipped at 41 mandaps across the city. Artisans have completed preparations for idols, decorative arches and themed pandals, while cultural programmes and a Pallishri Mela featuring traditional arts and crafts are attracting visitors.

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of Lakshmi Puja, with the joint bazaar puja committee planning Diamond Jubilee celebrations. The Chief Minister and Culture Minister have been invited.

The district administration has deployed 24 platoons of police and arranged fire safety, healthcare and traffic management. Heavy vehicles are barred from entering the city, parking has been organised at 11 locations, and eight sensitive areas have been designated no-parking zones. The festival is being held with cooperation among communities, traders and the administration.