Kharchi Puja to commence at Old Agartala's Chaturdasha Devata Temple tomorrow

Agartala (Tripura) [India], July 13 (ANI): The much-anticipated Kharchi Puja, a significant traditional festival, is set to begin tomorrow at the Chaturdasha Devata (Fourteen Gods) Temple in Khayerpur, Old Agartala.
This age-old celebration has been observed since the era of the erstwhile royal dynasty, following meticulous rituals and customs.
The observance of Kharchi Puja in the month of Ashadha is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious heritage of the region.
The ceremonial proceedings commenced today, Saturday afternoon, with the revered ritual of bathing the idols of the Fourteen Gods in the Howrah River. The event witnessed the presence of temple authorities, priests, and a gathering of devotees who participated in the traditional rites.
Kharchi Puja is a week-long festival that holds immense religious significance and draws thousands of devotees from across the state and beyond. The ritual bathing of the deities marks the beginning of the festivities, symbolizing purification and the washing away of sins. The idols are then brought back to the temple with great reverence and elaborate rituals.
During the festival, the deities are worshipped with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets, accompanied by the chanting of hymns and traditional music. The temple premises are adorned with decorations, and various cultural programs are organized, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The temple authorities have made extensive arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival, including security measures and facilities for the visiting devotees. The Kharchi Puja not only serves as a religious observance but also as a cultural celebration that brings together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage.
Shardendu Chakraborty, the priest of the Chaturdosh Devata Mandir, said, "Today is the Adivash puja of Mata. Now, Shaan Yatra has been successfully completed."

He added, "From tomorrow morning, all the rituals will begin. From 5:45 am, Shaan Yatra and Adivash puja will be performed. And afterwards, the Kharchi Puja will begin. The Kharchi Puja will end on July 21." (ANI)