The 10th edition of Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) took participants on a mesmerising journey through the revered Narendra Sarovar and its surrounding heritage landmarks.
Around 20 history enthusiasts and cultural explorers from Puri, Bhubaneswar, Konark, and Rourkela came together for the event, which began with a visit to the sacred waterbody.
As the trail unfolded, participants discovered significant spiritual and historical sites, including Kalindiswara Temple, Gopal Jew Mutt, Brahma Jaga, Jatia Babaji Ashram, Kuladananda Brahmachari Ashram, and Baya Baba Mutt.
At Kuladananda Brahmachari Ashram, attendees engaged in an insightful discussion on the historical significance of the locations they had explored. Sanjay Baral, the event convener, set the stage with a welcome address. Ashoka Manjari Nayak delved into the evolution of Narendra Sarovar and its connection to the Chandan Yatra, explaining its transition from Chandanpur to its current site.
Food historian Ritu Pattanaik shared insights into the sacred “Mandua Bhoga” offering during the festival, followed by nutritionist Jyotsna Mohapatra’s reflections on her experiences with PHW. Advisor Debi Prasanna Nanda illuminated the divine and mystical aspects of Narendra Sarovar, leaving the audience enthralled. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by convener Dr. Kumar Aurojyoti.
The cultural immersion continued as participants returned to Narendra Sarovar to witness the traditional “chapa khela” water sports of the deities. The walk concluded at Baya Baba Mutt, where attendees enjoyed heritage delicacies prepared at the site.
