Nandapur, 26th July 2025: In Nandapur block of Koraput district, the traditional Baulani Yatra of the village deity Maa Thakurani, who is regarded as the presiding goddess of the region, has begun with great devotion. This annual ritual is part of a nine-day celebration that includes Ghata Puja (sacred pot worship) and Nagara Parikrama (procession through the village), to be observed from July 31 to August 8.
As per tradition, the Baulani Yatra, which marks the beginning of the festivities, was held on the first Tuesday of the observance. On this occasion, the deity Maa Thakurani was ceremoniously brought out from the temple in a newly decorated small wooden chariot (shagada) and taken on a tour through the main roads of Nandapur village.
During this procession, pujas were conducted at the seven key areas (sahis) of Nandapur town. Symbolically, negative energies were collected during the ritual and placed onto the chariot for ritual removal from the community. This significant act, performed as part of the Baulani Bada Yatra, represents the cleansing of the village.
The chariot carrying the symbolic forces was taken approximately 2 km away to a hilltop area called Hadaput Mundia, where a ritual of energy release (buku chhadiba bidhi) was conducted. Priests and temple servitors from various communities—Diari, Bhandari, Dhoba, Yogi, Kumhar, Gauda, Kandha, Adivasi, Dalit—actively participated in the rites, showcasing social unity.
At 8 PM, a sacrificial offering and prayer ceremony (balipuja) was performed on the hill. Devotees then consumed the sacred prasad prepared for the occasion, following which Maa Thakurani was ceremonially returned to her temple.
The ritual of village circumambulation (grama parikrama) by Maa Thakurani is believed to protect the community and uphold harmony and prosperity.
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