Umarkote: The foundation ceremony (Shubhkhunti Sthapana) for the nine-day yatra of Jagatjanani Maa Thakurani was held on Tuesday at Gandhi Chhak. The Chaitra Kumbha Yatra of Maa will take place from March 31 to April 8.
During the auspicious ceremony, Bhuban Pujari, the priest of Maa Mangala Temple, performed rituals and worship before placing the sacred foundation post. As part of the yatra, devotees will carry the holy Kalash (sacred pot) and visit houses daily for darshan and puja.
Following the foundation ceremony, preparations for the Kalash Yatra commenced. It is believed that Maa Mangala is a directly manifest deity, and those who mentally offer prayers during this yatra will have their wishes fulfilled. Devotees from the district, neighboring districts, as well as from Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, participate in large numbers, making it a grand event with the congregation of over a hundred thousand devotees.
The event was attended by Navadin Yatra Committee President Muna Padhi, Vice President P. Ashish Kumar Rao, Secretary Satyanarayan Mishra, Treasurer Gobinda Majhi, village elders of Barapali, priests, farmers, intellectuals from Umarkote town, and other dignitaries.
The committee’s president emphasized the importance of ensuring the yatra is conducted smoothly and sought the cooperation of all members present.