The Daru (holy neem tree) meant for making of the idol of Maa Subhadra was axed after conclusion of Yajna Purnahuti held at Adhangagada under Biridi block here on Saturday evening.
The Yajna process continued for last two days. The Swatri Brahamans conducted the Purnahuti on Saturday afternoon paving the way for the felling of the Daru. After Purnahuti, a secret puja was held beneath the Daru in presence of Daitapati members. Then the Swatri Brahaman leader handed over a golden axe to Bidyapati, silver axe to Biswabasu and iron axe to the Moharana servitors and instructed for felling of Daru.
Anticipating a huge crowd at the Daru felling site, elaborate arrangements for maintaining law and order were put in place. About 10 platoons of police forces were deployed. Meanwhile, Kharipadia where Shree Jagannath Daru was identified turned into a major pilgrimage centre. The District Collector and SP were supervising the local security.
A free kitchen was set up by local MlA Rajashree Mallick at the Nilakantheswar temple premises, where free food was supplied to many visitors and devotees coming to the Daru site. Meanwhile, Kharipadia where Shree Jagannath Daru was identified turned into a major pilgrimage centre with flow of devotees constantly rising. Bulldozers were engaged to level the area and barricades were erected around the Daru. Sabarpalli and Yajan Mandap works were under progress which would be completed before arrival of Daitapati members. Chief Secretary GC Pati and SJTA chief Suresh Chandra Mohapatra had visited Adhangagada and Kharipadia on Friday night and taken stock of the preparations.