Bolangir, December 23, 2025: Like every year, the traditional **Sulia Yatra**, a cornerstone of faith for the Kandha tribal community, was celebrated with immense devotion and discipline this year in Khairgura and Kumuria villages under Kultapada Panchayat of Deogaon Block in Bolangir district.
The festival, held on the second Tuesday of the Pousha Shukla Paksha, saw thousands of devotees offering animal sacrifices—including goats, sheep, buffaloes, pigeons, and roosters—at Bada Khala in Khairgura and Sana Khala in Kumuria. Devotees believe that fulfilling vows through these offerings to Sulia Devi ensures prosperity, good harvests, and the granting of wishes.
The rituals commenced with the midnight ‘Nishi Puja’ on Monday at the Deheria’s residence in Khairgura. Chief priest Somanath Deheria then invoked the deity by offering milk in the forest. On Tuesday morning, tribals carrying traditional weapons, musical instruments, umbrellas, and offerings participated in a grand procession from Khairgura to the Sulia shrine.
At the shrine, the head priest performed initial rituals, followed by the sacrifice of a ram, paving the way for thousands of vowed animals brought by devotees. Similar ceremonies unfolded at Kumuria under chief priest Harihar Jhankar.
The event drew devotees from districts including Bolangir, Sonepur, Boudh, Phulbani, Bargarh, and Kalahandi. Notable attendees included former minister Narasingha Mishra, former Deogaon block chairman Lakshman Kumar Meher, royal family youth leader Manmath Bijay Singh Deo, and current block chairman Dayanidhi Khamari.
Markets and shops lined the shrine area, adding to the festive atmosphere. The administration ensured robust security, with District Collector Gaurav Shivaji Isalwar, SP Abhilash G, and other officials inspecting the site on Monday. Over 25 police officers, three magistrates, three platoons of force, and ODRAF teams maintained law and order, resulting in a peaceful celebration.
The associated Sulia Mahotsav, ongoing since Sunday, concludes today with its closing ceremony.
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