Sambalpur: The Covid-19 pandemic has failed to dampen the festive mood in western Odisha on the occasion of Nuakhai – the festival of harvest. People from across all walks of life, particularly from the western parts of Odisha, are celebrating the occasion but with adherence to social distancing guidelines.
As temples are closed, people remained inside their homes and avoided congregation. There were no community level celebrations this year.
This year’s Nuakhai is being celebrated without Bhet Ghat – the traditional get together of families in which all unite to pray Maa Sameleswari. The major event of the day at Maa Samaleshwari temple – The Nabanna Lagi or the offering of the first crop and grains to goddess Samaleswari is being performed without devotees. The temple administration has made arrangements for webcasting of the event through social media platforms.