Kendrapada: The onset of Cyclone Arnab has brought concerns of heavy rainfall and strong winds, significantly affecting the centennial celebrations of the week-long Gajalaxmi Puja, which commenced on Sunday.

On the inaugural day, the overcast skies mirrored the somber sentiment of the many devotees present. “Given the cyclone alert, this year’s puja festivities will be markedly muted,” remarked Balabhadra Das, a member of the local puja committee in Tinimuhani.

In response to the cyclone threat, the district administration has mandated that all puja committee members dismantle bamboo barricades, scaffolding, and decorative pandals by Monday. Kendrapada collector Raghuram R. Iyer warned that strict action would be taken against those who fail to comply with this directive.

Many local businesses had anticipated a profitable festive season, but their hopes for quick earnings have been dashed by the impending cyclone. Researcher Basudev Das, a former member of the Odisha Sahitya Academy, highlighted the significance of Gajalaxmi Puja in Kendrapada’s history, stating, “This puja has a rich heritage, initiated in 1926 by Radhashyam Narendra Srichandan, the former landlord of Kendrapada, at the New bus stand. Today, it is managed by his descendants and marks its 100th anniversary this year.”

Das further noted that by 1932, affluent individuals had begun their own Gajalaxmi Puja celebrations in various localities within Kendrapada, such as Balagandi, Santasahi, Ichapur, Nasidapur, and Gopa. Over the past 90 years, the number of Gajalaxmi pujas has burgeoned within the town and surrounding areas, with around 68 puja committees currently involved in crafting and illuminating idols of Ma Gajalaxmi and other figures at the puja mandaps.

The celebrations are known for fostering cultural exchange, drawing participation from diverse communities. However, Das expressed concern that the looming cyclone could dampen the festive spirit.