Cuttack: The Gangeshwara pitha in Salipur area of Cuttack district in Odisha is famous for the Patua Jatra. The festival has been celebrated here since last many years. While the festival had been stopped for the last two years due to Corona pandemic, it has resumed this year and is being celebrated with massive participation this year.
The Gangeshwara pitha, the age old shrine of Lord Shiva in Salipur area goes festive every year due to the Jhamu Jatra. This year also it is being celebrated with active participation of devotees. The patuas from different sects come down here during the festival to get fulfilled their wishes. They pay obeisance to Lord Gangeswar. It is believed that all wishes definitely gets fulfilled here by the grace of God.
Accordingly, devotees from all age groups including children and old men keep fast and remain present by the side of the God to get their wish fulfilled. Four types of patuas such as Kanta patua, Beta patua, Chakri patua and Agni Patua are being observed in this festival.
This year more number of patuas have taken part in the festival. They can be seen seated in the temple premises along with their beta and paita. The patuas get worshipped following worship of the head patua called shri Patua.
This year all arrangements have been made by the administration as well as temple committee for the patua jatra of Lord Gangeshwar. Temporary kiosks have been erected where different items are being sold. This year’s festival has witnessed large number of footfalls of devotees.
Ms Kalinga