President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday extended greetings to citizens across the country, particularly the people of Odisha, on the occasion of the harvest festival Raja, describing it as a celebration that reflects harmony with nature and India’s rich cultural traditions.
In a message posted on X, the President conveyed her heartfelt wishes on the occasion of the festival, which marks the onset of the monsoon season and is celebrated with special enthusiasm in Odisha.
“On the occasion of the harvest festival ‘Raja’, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of the country, especially the people of Odisha,” the President said.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, she noted that Raja is closely associated with nature, agriculture and the arrival of the monsoon.
“This inviting festival of the monsoon season is celebrated to honour the earth, the mother, and the clouds. Within the festivities of pithas, betel leaves and swing games, Raja reminds us to live in harmony with nature,” she said.
The President also underlined the broader social and cultural values associated with the festival and expressed hope that its message would inspire collective efforts towards national development.
“I hope that this special essence of the Raja festival will inspire us to dedicate ourselves to nation-building,” she added.
Conveying her best wishes, President Murmu prayed for the happiness, peace and prosperity of people in Odisha and across the country.
Raja Parba, one of Odisha’s most celebrated festivals, began on Sunday and will continue for three days. The festival marks the onset of the monsoon and symbolically celebrates the fertility and womanhood of Mother Earth.
Traditionally observed around mid-June, Raja Parba is rooted in the belief that the Earth undergoes a period of rest and rejuvenation during these days. The first three days of the festival are known as Pahili Raja, Mithuna Sankranti and Basi Raja, while the fourth day is observed as Vasumati Snana, when Mother Earth is ceremonially bathed.
The festival is marked by cultural celebrations, traditional games, swings known as Doli Jhula, and the preparation of special delicacies such as Poda Pitha, Manda Pitha and Arisa Pitha.
Celebrated with enthusiasm by people across Odisha, Raja Parba is regarded as a vibrant expression of the state’s cultural heritage and its enduring bond with nature.
-ANI
