On the occasion of Odia New Year and Maha Bishuba Sankranti, President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extended warm wishes to the people of Odisha. These celebrations hold great cultural significance and are marked by joyous festivities across the state.
President Murmu conveyed her heartfelt congratulations to the people of Odisha, both within the state and abroad, on Pana Sankranti. She emphasized the cultural richness symbolized by this auspicious occasion and wished for the prosperity of all residents of the state.
Prime Minister Modi also joined in the celebrations, expressing his best wishes for Maha Bishuba Pana Sankranti and Odia New Year. He lauded the wonderful Odia culture and prayed for happiness, success, and good health for everyone in the coming year.
Chief Minister Patnaik extended his greetings and best wishes to all on this special day, invoking the blessings of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath for happiness and prosperity in everyone’s lives.
Rituals at Shree Jagannath Temple and Observances
The celebration of Maha Bishuba Sankranti is marked by special rituals at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The newly-prepared almanac is read before the sibling deities of Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath, signifying the start of a new year.
Devotees observe fasts and offer new clothes and ‘pana’ to the deities at various temples across the state. Pana, a traditional drink, is prepared by mixing water, jaggery, yogurt, and spices with cooling properties.
Additionally, this day is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Hanuman, adding to the significance of the festivities for devotees.
Jhamu Jatra: A Sacred Ritual
Another sacred observance during Maha Bishuba Sankranti is the Jhamu Jatra. Devotees, known as ‘Patuas’ or holy devotees, participate in this ritual. They conclude the ceremony by walking barefoot on burning charcoal as a form of penance and gratitude to the goddess for fulfilling their wishes.
Regional Names and Unique Traditions
While Maha Bishuba Sankranti is celebrated across Odisha, it is known by different names in various regions of the state. In North Odisha, it is referred to as ‘Chadak Parva’, while in the southern region, it is known as ‘Danda Nata’, each with its own set of unique traditions and customs.
Overall, the celebration of Maha Bishuba Sankranti brings together communities across Odisha in a spirit of joy, devotion, and cultural pride, marking the beginning of a new year filled with hope and blessings.
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