DASPALLA: (Report- Subash Chandra Barik): The traditional Hindu festival of Danda Jatra has begun in the village of Banigochha, under the Daspalla block. Devotees are now observing the strict rituals of the Ma Rudra Kali Danda Jatra, a festival known for its deep faith and physical penance. 
Faith in the Sun: Ma Rudra Kali Danda Jatra Begins in Dashapalla


A Test of Faith and Endurance

Danda Jatra is celebrated during the month of Chaitra. Participants, known as Bhoktas, commit to the festival for periods of 13, 17, or 21 days. The rituals are physically demanding and require immense mental strength: 
  • Walking Barefoot: Devotees walk from village to village under the scorching summer sun to accept offerings (Bhoga).
  • The Dust Dance (Dhuli Danda): During the heat of the afternoon, performers roll on burning hot sand as an act of devotion.
  • Strict Fasting: The thirteen main Bhoktas and other devotees with special prayers fast all day. They consume only a single drink of Pana (a traditional sweet drink) in the evening after the daily rituals are complete.

Cultural Performances and Traditions

The festival is not only about penance but also about preserving Odia folk culture. While the "Dust Dance" happens during the day, the nights are filled with vibrant musical plays called Suanga.
Performers dress in various traditional characters to entertain the community and tell stories. These roles include:
  • Parabha and Hara-Parvati
  • Chadeya-Chadeyani (Bird hunters)
  • Patara Saura and Keluni
  • Yogi-Yogiani

The Grand Finale

The festival will reach its peak with the Meru Jatra (also known as Jhamu Jatra), held just before the Pana Sankranti festival. During this final stage, the deity returns to the temple sanctum (Gambhira) in a midnight ceremony.
Currently, the atmosphere in Banigochha is filled with spiritual energy. Following the formal start of the journey last night, the sacred image of Ma Rudra Kali was hosted today at the home of a local devotee for worship. Local reporter Subas Chandra Barik reports that the entire region is immersed in the sounds of prayer and tradition.