Devotees in large numbers gathered at Puri’s historic Narendra Pokhari to participate in the traditional Boit Vandana (boat festival) celebrations marking Kartik Purnima on Wednesday.

The sacred occasion witnessed a large turnout of devotees offering prayers and floating miniature boats as part of the centuries-old ritual symbolising Odisha’s maritime legacy.

Priya, a devotee from Puri itself, shared the significance of the day, saying it is considered auspicious for fulfilling wishes.

“Today is Kartik Purnima, a very auspicious day…And this is Narendra Pokhari in Puri, a beloved spot for visitors…The morning time is considered very auspicious for the fulfilment of wishes…” she said.

Another devotee, Ankit Kumar from Bihar, who attended the festival for the first time, said he was fasc

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