The city is immersed in the celebrations of Prathamastami today, marking the eighth day of the Margashirsha Krishna Paksha. This significant festival is dedicated to Goddess Shasthi (Jyestha Devi), with mothers performing rituals for the long life of their eldest child.
In accordance with Odia tradition, the eldest child is bathed, dressed in new clothes, and bows their head before the deity, parents, and Guru to seek blessings.
The culinary highlight of the day is the preparation of Enduri Pitha, uniquely flavored by the steaming of batter inside turmeric leaves.
A special ritual is also underway at the temple, where the Bada Thakur (Lord Jagannath) will be symbolically "buried" (dressed in new attire and offered Chheda Prasad) after the noon incense. Similarly, Mahaprabhu Srilingaraj is buried at the Mitreshwar Varuneshwar temple, and Goddess Mahalakshmi is also honored as the "eldest daughter."