In view of Covid-19, the Kalahandi district administration on Wednesday decided to conduct the famous annual Chhatar Yatra under restrictions to prevent congregation of people.
As decided at a meeting, the festival of Goddess Manikeswari would be conducted without devotees. No devotee would be allowed to enter into the temple or to take part in rituals during the event.
Besides, the traditional animal sacrifice would be banned at the temple on the occasion of Chhatar Yatra, which would be held on October 24 this year.Notably, the district administration bans animal sacrifice during the Chhatar Yatra every year. However, devotees sacrifice hundreds of animals and birds to “fulfil their wishes” despite the ban order.
During the event, a ceremonial Chhatar of the goddess is taken out to a location on the outskirts of Bhawanipatna from the temple in the morning following performance of secret rituals.
The return journey of the Chhatar to the temple is known as Chhatar Yatra.