The grand farewell to Goddess Durga has begun in Odisha’s Twin City as devotees in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar escort idols in colourful processions for immersion, marking the conclusion of this year’s Dussehra festivities.
In Cuttack, the immersion festival — famed as a cultural spectacle — started with the traditional Sahi Parikrama. Processions wound through major routes like College Chhak, Ranihat, Mangalabag, Buxibazar, Darghabazar, and Choudhury Bazar, drawing thousands of devotees. By 3 am, at least 12 idols had already been immersed at the historic Devigada ghat, where a specially constructed temporary pond is being used to ensure eco-friendly rituals.
In Bhubaneswar, neighbourhood idols are being carried to the Kuakhai and Daya rivers. To reduce river pollution, the administration has arranged artificial ponds along the banks for immersions.
To manage the huge crowds, authorities have deployed 122 platoons of police, supported by central security forces. Strict traffic diversions and restrictions are in place across both cities to maintain smooth movement.
The festivities, which saw weeks of elaborate pandals, light gates, and decorative displays, now end on a poignant note — celebrating the triumph of good over evil while bidding farewell to the Goddess.
