Thousands Celebrate Sulia Yatra with Tradition and Rituals in Bolangir

The traditional **Sulia Yatra** was celebrated on December 23, 2025, in Bolangir district, attracting thousands of devotees from various regions. The festival, significant for the **Kandha tribal community**, unfolded in Khairgura and Kumuria villages under Kultapada Panchayat. This annual event featured rituals that included animal sacrifices, with participants believing that these offerings ensure prosperity and fulfill their wishes.

The festivities began with the midnight **Nishi Puja** at the residence of the chief priest, **Somanath Deheria**, in Khairgura. Following this, he performed rituals in the forest, invoking the deity by offering milk. On the morning of the festival, a grand procession took place, where tribals, adorned with traditional weapons, musical instruments, and colorful umbrellas, made their way to the Sulia shrine.

At the shrine, the head priest conducted initial rituals, which culminated in the sacrifice of a ram. This act marked the commencement of the sacrifices of other vowed animals, including goats, sheep, buffaloes, pigeons, and roosters, which were brought by devotees. Similar ceremonies were conducted in Kumuria, led by chief priest **Harihar Jhankar**. The event attracted attendees from neighboring districts such as **Sonepur**, **Boudh**, **Phulbani**, **Bargarh**, and **Kalahandi**.

Among the notable figures present were former minister **Narasingha Mishra**, former Deogaon block chairman **Lakshman Kumar Meher**, royal family youth leader **Manmath Bijay Singh Deo**, and current block chairman **Dayanidhi Khamari**. The atmosphere was further enlivened by local markets and shops that lined the shrine area, enhancing the festive spirit.

To ensure safety and order during the celebrations, district administration took significant measures. **Gaurav Shivaji Isalwar**, the District Collector, and Superintendent of Police **Abhilash G**, along with several officials, conducted inspections ahead of the event. A robust security presence was established, including over 25 police officers, three magistrates, and three platoons of force, along with **ODRAF** teams, resulting in a peaceful observance of the festival.

The accompanying **Sulia Mahotsav**, which began on December 21, 2025, is set to conclude today with a closing ceremony. This year’s Sulia Yatra exemplified the community’s deep-rooted traditions and the vibrant cultural heritage of the Kandha tribal people.