Similar to previous years, a traditional Gaja-Baja ceremony was held on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 5:00 pm at the old Durga Puja Maidan complex in Agrico on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. This ceremony was conducted under the auspices of Santosh Akhara, which was founded in 1969. Ramnavmi flag and bhoomi pujan were arranged ahead of the festival. During this, Santosh Kumar and Aman Upadhyay, licensees of Santosh Akhara, assisted in finishing the puja rituals, while Pandit Ashok Pandey conducted the puja. Chief patron of the organising committee Bhupendra Singh, treasurer of the Central Durga Puja Committee, Nand Ji Singh, Kalindi, were present on the occasion.
In addition to registering their presence and taking part in the puja rituals, Society President Manohar Kalindi, Spokesperson Shambhu Mukh Dungri, Pradeep Sal, Jaideep Kalindi, Rajesh Kumar, Namita Upadhyay, Bhagwan Chatar, and Rakesh Oraon also attended. Following the official puja ceremonies, the devotees in attendance received prasad. Thanks to Santosh Akhara, the puja ritual was successfully conducted for the 56th time this year.
There was a formal conclusion to the event. Attractive performances, particularly by Chhau dance teams, will take place during the programme.