Nabarangpur, 1st Nov 2025: The 18 Steps Puja (Pathinettam Padi Puja) of Lord Ayyappa Swamy was observed at the temple premises of Goddess Maa Bhandargharani and Maa Penduni, the presiding deities of Nabarangpur.
Devotees and followers performed the rituals of Lord Ayyappa Swamy with deep faith, devotion, and adherence to traditional rules. During the 41-day Deeksha (austere vow), devotees conducted the puja following all customary traditions — lighting lamps, offering incense and flowers, and worshipping the symbolic 18 steps of Lord Ayyappa.
After completing the 41-day Deeksha, on November 16, devotees will undertake the pilgrimage to Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, where they will offer the sacred mala (garland) worn during the vow to Lord Ayyappa, informed Raja Rengi.
As part of the observance, more than a hundred Ayyappa Maladhari (devotees who have taken the vow and wear the mala) participated with dedication. Around 20 Guru Swamys (senior devotees and spiritual guides) and prominent members of the Ayyappa devotees’ group were honored by priest Sadananda Pujari of Maa Penduni Temple for their devotion and service.
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