Jeypore: The old Ghantagudi (bell shrine), which existed since the reign of the royal rulers, has now been transformed into a grand temple at Purunagada. The installation of the new temple and idols began today. From this year, the famous Ghanta Festival will commence from the newly built Chudimandir, and the five-day festival will witness the participation of hundreds of Purunagada residents. The rituals, including initiation ceremonies and Ankura Puja, were conducted today as part of the Ghanta Yatra (Bell Procession).
Historical Significance and Transformation
Before the capital shifted from Nandapur to Jaypur, the Paraja tribal community worshipped Goddess Dangar Dei at Purunagada. Various tribal festivals were celebrated, including Nandi Yatra, which was limited to neighborhood processions rather than city-wide parades. After many years, a formal shrine was established on donated land in Purunagada, marking the beginning of the Ghanta Festival in 1964.
During the Ghanta Yatra, several deities, including Goddess Dangar Dei, Dakshina Kali, Gangama, Bhairavi, and Bhandar Gharani Fulchangudi, are carried in a grand procession around the city. In earlier times, tribal people worshipped Chamundia effigies during the festival. Over the years, the shrine evolved from a simple thatched hut (1972) to a tiled house, and finally, a brick structure.
According to researcher Ganeshwar Dalpati, the first Ghanta Yatra was celebrated in Nuasahi Satabhouni, followed by its expansion in Purunagada. Initially, the ritualistic daily worship was performed by Nilambar Dalpati, assisted by Lakshmi Chandra Ghadei and Nabaghana Duari. Today, both the Paraja and Paika (warrior) communities continue to uphold the Ghanta Festival traditions.
Rituals and Community Participation
The main attraction of the festival is the ritualistic swinging of the bell (Dangar Dei’s Patakhanda) and the use of a sacred palanquin made from bel wood.
In 1958, the Bali Yatra began at Purunagada, celebrated with grandeur in Bhuptisahi, Lalsahi, and Dhangidisahi.
Initially, the Ghanta Yatra was a three-day event, but now it lasts five days.
Temple guards (Ghantabahakas) observe fasting and
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