Bhubaneswar, Oct. 18 -- Odisha is witnessing religious fervour on Maha Ashtami as devotees are seen gathering at Durga Puja pandals and Shakti Peeths across the state to offer prayers to Goddess Durga.

Special rituals and worship are being performed at both places to mark the occasion.

Maha Ashtami is an important day of Durga Puja. Shakti Peeths are witnessing a large turnout of devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess Durga.

Meanwhile, crowds are also increasing at puja pandals across the state. In Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, towering decorative gates and elaborate lighting arrangements are attracting visitors.

A local said, "Since today is Maha Ashtami, I have come to seek the blessings of the goddess. The decorations at the puja pan...