Habisyalis in Puri start their rituals from today that is the ‘kartik brata’ as the holy Kartik month starts. Kartik is the eighth and holiest month in the Hindu lunar calendar.
Who are Habisyalis
Habisyalis are elderly widows who renounce the comforts of daily life and especially during the month of Kartik. They tread the path of faith and austerity. These women arrive from across Odisha to spend an entire month in the service of Lord Jagannath.
They wake up before dawn, bathe, and offer prayers to Lord Jagannath. They eat only once a day. A special lentil and vegetable stew called Habisa Dalma is prepared for them. It is basically dal and Odia local vegetables, cooked with just cumin and ginger as spices.
Government Support For Habisiyalis
Widows aged between 50 and 70 years had applied for the registration under Habisyali Scheme in Puri. A total of 2,500 applicants were chosen. Those who were fit both physically and mentally, were selected this year. Preference was given to new applicants.
Like every year, all arrangements have been made for the accommodation of the Habisyali. The administration shall take care of their systematic darshan of Lord Jagannath. Placement of volunteers, recitation of bhajans, and worship shall all be taken care of by the administration.
