Raja Sankranti 2024, held from June 14 to June 16 in Odisha, is a vibrant three-day festival that honours women and Mother Earth. The festival features traditional rituals such as bathing a symbolic representation of Bhumi Devi, offering seasonal fruits, and donning new saris and ornaments. It is a period of rest and celebration for women, highlighting the importance of menstruation and fertility. Take part in this unique festival and experience the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.
Raja Sankranti 2024: Date, Significance, Celebrations in Odisha
Mumbai: Raja Parva, a cultural festival held in the Indian state of Odisha from June 14 to June 16, is a vibrant celebration of women. The three-day event honours Bhuma Devi, Mother Earth, through various rituals and traditions.
A day of celebration
- Pahili Raja (First Day): This is the beginning of the festival.
- Mithuna Sankranti (2nd Day): The most important day, marking the beginning of the monsoon season and the earth’s menstrual cycle.
- Budha or Vashi Raja (3rd day): On the final day, women perform rituals in honour of Bhumi Devi.
The day before the festival is called Sajabhaja (preparation day) and involves thorough cleaning of homes, kitchens and millstones. Spices are ground in preparation for the day ahead. During the festival, women take a break from their daily household chores, don new saris and jewellery and take part in various celebratory activities.
Also known as the Swing Festival, during this festival, different swings like Ram Doli, Charkhi Doli, Pata Doli and Dandi Doli are hung from tree branches and girls swing on them while singing folk songs.
Ceremonies and celebrations
On the final day, women wash a millstone representing Bhumi Devi with turmeric paste, flowers and sindoor and offer to the Goddess various seasonal fruits which symbolise fertility and prosperity.
Raja Parva coincides with Mithuna Sankranti, an important event in the Oriya calendar, when all construction work and digging of earth is stopped to pay tribute to Mother Earth, who is believed to be in her menstrual cycle at this time. The term “Raja” comes from the Oriya word for menstruation, highlighting the festival’s focus on fertility and the importance of menstruation for women.
How to celebrate Raja Sankranti
Taking a break from work: Residents of Odisha usually take time off to enjoy festivals.
Trying out new fashion items: Unmarried girls often try on new clothes and jewellery during this time.
Play indoor games: Indoor games are a popular activity among women that helps them bond and relax.
Significance of Raja Sankranti
Celebrating Femininity: Raja Parva pays tribute to the beauty and strength of women and celebrates the unique aspects of femininity.
Opportunities to relax: The festival provides an excellent opportunity for women to rest and rejuvenate from their daily routine.
Environmental Health: Prep cleaning emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean and tidy environment.
Raja Parva is a unique festival that not only celebrates the important role of women in society but also highlights the importance of respecting and nurturing Mother Earth.
