A dispute over the date of Paya Shraddha has now been resolved. Following a joint meeting with journalists, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration’s Muktimandap Pandit Sabha clarified that Paya Shraddha will be observed on October 20, coinciding with Diwali.

The confusion arose because some calendars listed Paya Shraddha and deepdan (lamp offering) on October 21, a day when the government has declared a public holiday for Diwali. Pandit Sabha members, including Executive President Aditya Hrudaya Mishra, Editor Praful Mishra, and several astrologers, confirmed that the Shraddha should be performed on the 20th, with lamp offerings at night.

Timing of Mahalaya Amavasya and Diwali Observance

On October 20, Mahalaya Amavasya will extend from 3:45 PM to 5:54 AM on October 21. Devotees who cannot offer Shraddha during the day may perform it during Mahalaya Amavasya and light lamps later in the evening. This clarification resolves the longstanding dual-date confusion in various calendars regarding Diwali and Paya Shraddha.

Guidelines for Firecrackers Issued by Pollution Control Board

The Odisha Pollution Control Board has released guidelines for firecracker use during Diwali. Firecrackers should only be burst between 7 PM and 9 PM, and their sound should not exceed 125 decibels. Firecrackers are prohibited near sensitive areas such as gardens, parks, hospitals, schools, courts, and temples.

Only green crackers are permitted in open areas, and bursting crackers is banned near crowded places, shops, narrow lanes, fire-prone areas, and high-traffic zones. Children below the age of 10 years are not allowed to burst firecrackers. Safety precautions, including wearing cotton clothing, are strongly advised.

This ensures devotees can celebrate Diwali safely and in accordance with religious traditions, while also controlling noise and air pollution.

The post Diwali 2025: Paya Shraddha to Be Observed on October 20; Firecracker Guidelines Issued appeared first on Odisha Connect.