Auspicious Beginning of the Odia New Year
The festival of Maha Bishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, is being celebrated across Odisha with great enthusiasm and devotion. Marking the beginning of the traditional Odia New Year, the day signifies the start of a new almanac (Panji) followed by people across the state.
Significance of the Festival
Maha Bishuba Sankranti derives its name from the movement of the Sun towards the equator, symbolizing seasonal transition. According to the Odia calendar, it is considered the first Sankranti of the year and holds immense cultural and religious importance.
Rituals and Traditions in Every Household
On this occasion, every Odia household performs special prayers dedicated to deities. A unique tradition involves placing a small earthen pot filled with “pana” (a refreshing drink) near the Tulsi plant. The pot has a small hole from which water slowly drips, symbolizing rainfall and prosperity. This ritual is known as “Basundhara Theki.”
Offerings made to the deities typically include a mixture of chhatua, curd, jaggery, banana, and coconut.
Celebrations Across Temples and Religious Sites
Major temples such as Maa Sarala Temple and Biraja Temple observe special rituals and the traditional “Jhamu Yatra” on this day. Devotees participate in unique practices, including walking on fire and piercing their bodies, as acts of faith and fulfillment of vows.
At Jagannath Temple, special offerings of pana and chhatua are presented to the deities, maintaining age-old traditions.
New Panji Comes into Effect
The new Odia Panji (almanac), which was earlier ceremonially offered to the deities during Dola Purnima, comes into effect from today. All religious rituals, daily temple practices, and auspicious social events throughout the year are scheduled based on this new calendar.
Festive Spirit Across Odisha
From villages to cities, the festive spirit is visible everywhere as people welcome the Odia New Year with prayers, rituals, and community celebrations. The day reflects Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions that continue to thrive across generations.
Maha Bishuba Sankranti not only marks the beginning of a new year but also reinforces the cultural identity and spiritual values of the people of Odisha, bringing communities together in celebration and devotion.