India, Sept. 30 -- The air is thick with the fragrance of incense, the rhythmic beating of drums, and the resonating echoes of conch shells. In puja mandaps across Odisha, Goddess Durga is being worshipped with fervent devotion as Maha Ashtami rituals continue, while at the sacred peeths (shrines), devotees are witnessing the solemn observance of Maha Navami.

At the heart of the celebrations, the atmosphere is filled with devotion. From the sacred chanting of Chandi Patha to the pulsating sound of ghantas and hulahuli, every moment reflects the deep spiritual bond between devotees and the divine. Throngs of worshippers line up with offerings in hand, eager to seek blessings and place bhoga at the Goddess's feet.

At Biraja Temple, the fi...