The ceremonial ‘Thaal Utha’ ritual, marking the beginning of the renowned Sital Sasthi festival, was observed with great devotion in Sambalpur on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. The ritual signifies the commencement of preparations for the grand annual celebration.

Rituals Performed Across Temples

The Thaal Utha ceremony was conducted in various local temples across the city following special rituals and पूजा rites. Members of different yatra committees, organizers, and community elders gathered to participate in the sacred proceedings.

Tradition Begins at Historic Nandapada

As per long-standing tradition, the ritual commenced first at the temple of Baba Balunkeswar in Nandapada, considered one of the oldest and most significant sites associated with the festival. After offering prayers, the ceremonial thaal (offering plate) was lifted, officially marking the beginning of the festivities.

Ceremonies Held at Multiple Shaivite Shrines

Following the initial ritual, similar ceremonies were conducted at several prominent temples across Sambalpur. These included Lokanath Baba Temple in Jhaduapada and Jhadeswar Baba Temple in Mudipada. Rituals were also performed at temples dedicated to Mandhata Baba in Maneswar, Somnath Baba in Balibandha, Sitaleswar Baba in Badabazar, Gupteswar Baba in Thakurpada, Pahadeswar Baba in Budharaja, Bhutnath Baba in Bhutapada, and Omkareshwar Baba in Sakshipada, among others.

Fund Collection for Festival Begins

With the completion of the Thaal Utha ritual, yatra committees have initiated the traditional process of collecting funds from residents in their respective localities. These contributions play a vital role in organizing the elaborate celebrations of the Sital Sasthi festival.

Dignitaries Join the Ceremony

The event witnessed the presence of several prominent personalities, including Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra and former minister Rohit Pujari, along with other distinguished members of society who participated in the rituals.

Cultural Festivity Set to Begin

The Thaal Utha ceremony sets the stage for the much-awaited Sital Sasthi Yatra, a vibrant cultural and religious festival that reenacts the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The celebrations attract thousands of devotees and visitors every year, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Sambalpur.