President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of Odisha on the occasion of Raja Parba, the state’s iconic three-day festival that celebrates the onset of the monsoon season, womanhood, fertility, and reverence for Mother Earth.
In a post on X, President Murmu said, “On the occasion of the harvest festival ‘Raja’, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of the country, especially the people of Odisha. This inviting festival of the monsoon season is celebrated to honor 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 expressed hope that the values embodied by the festival would inspire citizens to contribute towards nation-building and wished peace, happiness, and prosperity for the people of Odisha and the country.
PM Modi also greeted people on the occasion, saying, “Warm wishes on the joyous occasion of Raja Parba. May this special festival deepen the spirit of happiness and harmony in society. May everyone be blessed with prosperity and good health.”
The three-day Raja Parba festival, which began on June 14, is being celebrated across Odisha with traditional enthusiasm and cultural fervour. One of the state’s most significant agrarian festivals, Raja Parba is closely associated with agriculture, the arrival of monsoon rains, and the celebration of feminine power. Agricultural activities are traditionally suspended during this period as a mark of respect for nature’s regenerative cycle.
The festival’s first three days are observed as Pahili Raja, Mithuna Sankranti, and Basi Raja (or Bhu Daaha), followed by Vasumati Snana on the fourth day. Celebrations include wearing new clothes, enjoying swings (Doli Jhula), and preparing traditional Odia delicacies such as Poda Pitha, Manda Pitha, and Arisa Pitha.
Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati described Raja as a grand celebration of Odisha’s culture, traditions, and environmental consciousness. He noted that the festival carries a strong message of environmental protection and harmony with nature.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said Raja Parba represents the living essence of Odisha’s cultural identity and symbolises the unique confluence of Mother Earth and feminine power. He emphasised that the festival is not merely a seasonal celebration but a reflection of Odisha’s enduring cultural consciousness.
Majhi noted that during Raja, women in households are relieved of their daily responsibilities and celebrated with dignity, freedom, and joy. He expressed hope that the festival would inspire renewed commitment towards building a prosperous, self-reliant, and developed Odisha.
Meanwhile, BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi described Raja Parba as a unique festival that honours womanhood while highlighting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. She said the festival’s close association with agriculture, women, and the earth underscores its enduring relevance and significance.
Raja Parba continues to be one of Odisha’s most cherished cultural traditions, bringing together communities through rituals, food, music, and celebrations that honour both nature and womanhood.
(With agency inputs)
