Wed Oct 16 13:45:33 UTC 2024: ## Dhenkanal Gears Up for Grand Gajalaxmi Puja Celebration

**Dhenkanal, Odisha:** The ancient town of Dhenkanal is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for its iconic Gajalaxmi Puja, scheduled for tomorrow, October 16th. Preparations have reached their final stages, with artisans putting the finishing touches on the clay image of Goddess Gajalaxmi and teams working tirelessly to set up elaborate gates and decorative lights around the puja pandals.

This year, the Ganesh Bazaar puja committee has created a stunning decorative gate inspired by the New Victoria Palace, built by artisans from Cuttack. The project, which cost a staggering Rs. 10 lakh, took a month to complete. The Mahaveer puja committee is celebrating its diamond jubilee, adding another layer of significance to this year’s festivities.

Several puja committees, including those from Meena Bazaar, Ganesh Bazaar, Laxmi Bazaar, Kaibalya Bazaar and Gudia Nalee, will be worshipping Goddess Gajalaxmi using silver tableaux, known as ‘chandi medha’. This year, the divine goddess will be worshipped at 38 different pandals across the town.

“We are working around the clock to finish colouring the clay image of Goddess Gajalaxmi today. Tomorrow, she will be adorned with beautiful clothes and ornaments,” said Rakesh Muduli, one of the artisans.

“Time is running out, but we are confident everything will be ready in time,” said Srikant Kumar Sahu, a senior member of the Ganesh Bazaar puja committee. “All works are being done on a war footing, and we are hopeful that with the support of our committee members, the Goddess will be welcomed to her pandal on time.”

The annual Gajalaxmi Puja is a major event in Dhenkanal, attracting devotees and tourists from across the state. The atmosphere is electric with anticipation, and residents are eager to witness the grand celebration.

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