The region of Western Odisha is currently vibrant with religious devotion and appreciation for agriculture as the highly anticipated festival of Nuakhai unfolds with significant excitement.

The ceremonial offering of Nabanna, which consists of the newly harvested rice, to the area’s revered deity, Goddess Samaleswari, took place successfully within the auspicious time frame (Shubha Lagna) from 9:40 AM to 9:54 AM.

After the sacred ritual at the renowned Samaleswari shrine located in Sambalpur, families throughout the region began to prepare for the customary meal celebrating the fresh harvest, in line with cultural practices that have been cherished for generations.

Extensive arrangements were made in Sambalpur and surrounding areas to facilitate the smooth execution of this agrarian festivity. Early in the day, thousands of devotees gathered at the Maa Samaleswari temple complex to witness the deity dressed in festive garments and to receive blessings for a prosperous farming season ahead.

As the main deity accepted the first offerings of the land, the atmosphere in Western Odisha transformed into a scene of traditional family reunions, the blessings of elders (Nuakhai Juhar), and community festivities.