Jhamu Yatra during Maha Vishuba Sankranti in Odisha

Jhamu Yatra, of fire walks, are organized in many Devi Temples in Cuttack in Odisha during Maha Vishuba Sankranti which falls on April 14/15. Maha Vishuba Sankranti is the Odia New Year. Important temples dedicated to Goddess Shakti in the regions attract thousands of devotees on the day.

Fire walks are performed by those devotees who observe the Jhamu Yatra. The person who performs the Brata is known as Patua or Holy Devotee. The brata is completed on the day by performing the Jhamu Yatra.

Patuas walk on burning charcoal filled in a channel as a part of their penance. It is performed to fulfil their desires. Some perform to show their gratitude to the Goddesses for having fulfilled their desires. Some do it as part of preordained vows.