The Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture has officially approved a budget of Rs 3.30 crore to facilitate smooth arrangements for women observing the sacred Kartika Brata (popularly known as Habisyalis) in Srikhetra, Puri, this year.
Thousands of elder women and devotees gather in Puri every year during the holy month of Kartika to observe strict vows, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath. Recognizing the spiritual significance of the tradition, the state government has stepped in to ensure that all participating Habisyalis receive full administrative and infrastructural support throughout the month-long observance.
The allocated fund of Rs 3.30 crore will be utilized to manage secure accommodation at various designated Habisyali centers across Puri. The government has put comprehensive arrangements in place to oversee daily logistics, including the hassle-free distribution of Mahaprasad, organization of daily bhajan-kirtan sessions, and execution of traditional cultural programs.
To address the influx of pilgrims and visitors during Kartika Masa, dedicated transportation services have been arranged to carry Habisyali mothers safely from their accommodations to the Srimandir for daily darshan. Additionally, the administration has deployed trained volunteers, enhanced sanitation drives, and ensured uninterrupted power and drinking water supplies across all centers.
Government officials emphasized that wide-ranging safety measures and medical assistance teams have been posted at key locations to ensure that no devotee encounters any hardship while fulfilling her spiritual vows during this auspicious month.
