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Religious fervour marks Pongal festivities

BERHAMPUR: The three-day Pongal festivities were at pinnacle in the city on Sunday with the observation of ‘Kanuma'.

There was heavy rush at chicken and mutton stalls.

Most Telugu families have a traditional non-vegetarian feast at their homes on the day of ‘Kanuma'. Friends and relatives have been invited to these feasts. Despite rising price of eatables in recent times, it was heartening for the customers that there was no hike in price of chicken and mutton in the city for ‘Kanuma'.

It may be noted that Berhampur and most south Orissa districts have a sizeable Telugu populace. So, whole of south Orissa wore festive look for Pongal.

Everywhere in south Orissa, colourful rangoli, traditional Bhogi bonfire and cultural functions marked the three-day Pongal festivities that begun on Saturday. Everywhere Oriya families also came out to celebrate Pongal along with their Telugu brethren.

Bhogi bonfire

This year, shortage of firewood was surely a worry for many for Bhogi bonfire. It was hard to find large logs to burn. And these logs were also highly priced. At several places the girls of Telugu community got together and performed worship of Lord Krishna as part of the ‘Gobbi' ritual.

Attired in new dresses, they called themselves ‘Gopikas' and went one house to another sharing Pongal festivities.

Most of the local clubs and street committees of the city organised competitions among children and women. Markets of the city remained crowded for Pongal shopping despite price hike.

The jewel traders of the city also had an increased market as Telugu families reached out to buy gold ornaments.

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