Odisha is famous for its wonderful festivals, and tourists from all over the world come to experience them. From the annual Rath Yatra in Puri to the tribal dance performances in Konark, there is plenty to see and do in Odisha. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best Odisha Festivals. Keep reading to learn more!
Odisha Festival Traditions: An Overview
Odisha is known for it’s rich traditional culture. The state celebrates the vibrant festivals with great zeal and enthusiasm. The festivities are celebrated with great pomp and show in most of the cities and towns of Odisha.
The rituals and traditions of the Odia culture connect them with their ancient past and religious beliefs. The rituals remain a constant source of inspiration for the Odia people.
Some of the important traditional festivals of Odisha are:
Rath Yatra: The Rath Yatra of Puri, which is also popularly known as Car Festival, is one of the major festivals of the state. The festival is celebrated in the month of June. The Rath Yatra of Puri is the festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is regarded as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Jagannath is worshipped in a three–barred chariot, pulled by two huge white elephants. The devotees believe that by the divine grace of the deity, the devotees get cured of their illness.
Ekadasi Festival: Another significant festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Odisha is the Ekadasi Festival. It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Bhadraba. The Ekadasi Festival is a special day when fasting is required. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings of Lord Vishnu. The devotees take a dip in the Ganges or pray to the deity in a beautiful temple.
Odia New Year: The Odia New Year is also celebrated with great fanfare. The festival, which is popularly known as Pana Sankranti, is celebrated in the month of Baishakha.The festival is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm. People also prepare different dishes with rice, lentils and vegetables to celebrate the day.
Unveiling the Secrets of Odisha Festival
One of the most awaited festivals of Odisha is ‘Gundicha Jatra’; also known as ‘Rath Yatra’. It is mainly celebrated in Puri & all across Odisha, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.
In Odisha, some communities celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm. The chariots reach Jagannath Temple in the evening. Many devotees and tourists gather in the temple premises to wish Lord Jagannath. The Jagannath Temple is considered to be the world’s most magnificent temple.
The Rath Yatra is celebrated on Asadha Shukla Dwitiya, the fifth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Ashadha. The festival is celebrated in June- July, and lasts up to nine days.
How to Prepare for Odisha Festivals: Tips and Tricks
If you’re planning on attending any of the major Odisha festivals this year, make sure you’re prepared. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you nail the fest experience:
- Plan your outfits ahead of time. Odisha festivals are notorious for being hot and humid, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Bring a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen to stay hydrated and looking good, respectively.
- Bring a back up plan. If something should go wrong, be prepared to switch gears and enjoy the festivities without your planned costumes or accessories.
- Bring cash. Odisha festivals are notorious for being expensive, and you’ll want to be prepared for whatever costs may come your way.
- Be aware of your surroundings. These are lively and crowded, so be aware of your surroundings at all times. Stay aware of your belongings and stay safe while you’re out and about.
- Have fun! There are an annual event that should be enjoyed to the fullest. Follow these tips and you’ll have a great time no matter what happens.
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Top 5 Best Odia Festivals
- Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri:-
Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra is also known as Car Festival. It is held on July / August every year. It is one of the most important festivals of Odisha. This festival is celebrated at Puri, Puri District, Odisha. Devotees carry the deities of lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra on a magnificent chariot called rath. - Nuakhai Festival:-
Nuakhai festival is celebrated in the month of October in Odisha. It is one the famous festival in Sambalpur. - Dussehra Festival celebrated in Odisha:-
Dussehra festival is celebrated in Sambalpur, Odisha during the months of September and October. - Bali Yatra in Cuttack:-
Bali Yatra also known as Festival of business is a very famous festival celebrated in Cuttack, Odisha. - Diwali in Odisha:- Diwali is also celebrated in Odisha like no where else. “Baba Badua Ho, Andhara re Asa, Aluare Jao….”
Few more facts to visit in Odisha
Odisha, India, is one of the least explored destinations in the country. Yes, it is located in the north eastern part of India, but you wouldn’t know that just by looking at its natural beauty and charm.
Odisha boasts of various treasures of nature. The beautiful place has everything from lush greenery to mountains to waterfalls. Most of the places in the state are famous for its colossal limestone caves and steep hills.
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is the largest temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is also the protector of the Gods. The Jagannath temple is also famous for its Rath Yatra, which takes place during the monsoon season. The Rath Yatra is a grand festival, when the idols of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and their mother Subhadra are taken out in grand procession on three elaborately decorated wooden chariots.
The Chandi Temple, located in the town of Cuttack, is another important destination in the state. The temple is famous for being dedicated to Goddess Chandi and Goddess Durga, but the local community also worships it as a place of pilgrimage.
