India is home to many unique festivals that are celebrated in specific states, while people in other parts of the country may know little about them. We have all heard of festivals that celebrate womanhood and fertility. One such festival is Odisha’s Raja Parba, honouring women, fertility, and Mother Earth. Read on to know all about this celebration!
What Is Odisha’s Raja Parba?
Odisha’s popular festival Raja Parba began on June 13 and will continue till June 16. The festival celebrates the arrival of the monsoon. Also, during this time, people believe that Mother Earth, known as Bhudevi, goes through her annual menstrual cycle. As a result, they give her rest and show respect through various traditions and rituals.
Before Raja Parba begins, people observe Sajabaja. It is a preparatory day for the festival. Women prepare traditional delicacies like Poda Pitha and finish cooking tasks in advance, as cooking and certain household activities are avoided during the festival.
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What Is The Importance Of Three-Days?
The first day of Raja Parba is Pahili Raja. On this day, girls dress in colourful traditional outfits and decorate their feet with alata. They enjoy swinging on beautifully decorated swings, singing Raja songs, and spending quality time with friends and family.
The second day of Raja Parba is called Mithuna Sankranti or Raja Sankranti. This year, it will be celebrated on June 14, marking the Sun’s movement into the Mithuna month in the Indian solar calendar.
On June 15, the third day of Raja Parba is called Bhu Daha or Basi Raja. It marks the final day of Mother Earth’s menstrual period. Following tradition, people avoid farming and other agricultural activities to allow Mother Earth to rest.
The festival officially concludes with the Basumati Snana. During this ritual, women bathe a grinding stone that represents Mother Earth. They use turmeric paste, flowers, and water as part of the ceremony.
How excited are you for this unique celebration? Tell us in the comments below!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
FAQs
When is Raja Parba festival in Odisha?
In Odisha, people will start celebrating Raja Parba from June 14 and will continue till June 16.
Why Raja Parba will be celebrated?
Raja Parba is celebrated to honour womanhood, fertility, and Mother Earth while welcoming the arrival of the monsoon season.
What are the three important days of Raja Parba?
The three important days of Raja Parba are Pahili Raja, Mithuna Sankranti, and Bhu Daha.