Odisha marked the beginning of 2026 with spiritual fervour and collective enthusiasm as devotees across the state gathered at temples and sacred sites to offer prayers and seek blessings for the year ahead. The dawn of the New Year witnessed scenes of devotion, unity, and hope, with people embracing tradition while stepping into a fresh chapter.
Religious centres across the state witnessed a steady influx of devotees from the early hours. Many people began the year with special prayers, rituals, and offerings, reflecting deep-rooted cultural and spiritual traditions. Social media platforms buzzed with greetings and messages of goodwill, highlighting the blend of tradition and modern celebration.
The holy city of Puri remained the focal point of New Year observances, drawing lakhs of devotees to the Shree Jagannath Temple. The temple doors were opened at 2 a.m., allowing pilgrims to have the first darshan of Lord Jagannath in the New Year. Devotees thronged the temple premises to witness the sacred rituals and offer prayers at the crack of dawn.
To ensure smooth movement, entry into the temple was regulated through the Singhadwar (Lion’s Gate), while darshan was facilitated from the ‘Bahara Katha’. Temporary arrangements, including mobile phone and footwear counters along the Bada Danda, were set up to manage the large turnout efficiently.
In view of the massive gathering, elaborate security arrangements were implemented across Puri. Over 70 platoons of police personnel were deployed, with special focus on crowd control, traffic regulation, and public safety. Surveillance was intensified from Atharnala to the sea beach, and senior officials remained on the ground to oversee operations.
Thanks to coordinated efforts by the administration, police, and volunteers, the New Year celebrations concluded smoothly and peacefully.
As Odisha steps into 2026, the spirit of devotion, discipline, and hope resonated strongly, reflecting the collective aspiration for peace, prosperity, and progress in the year ahead.
