Festivals in Orissa

Chandan Yatra

Introduction A coastal district of Orissa, Puri is a tourist’s paradise for its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, sanctuaries, religious monuments and historical artifacts. The history of Puri dates back to 3 century BC and boasts of the famous Jaganath Temple and the Konark Temple. Chodaganga Deva built the well known temple of Purusottama Jaganath and was hence named after him. The culture and rich heritage of Puri is displayed in the beautiful wall paintings, the ancient patta paintings, the traditional Ganjappa paintings and the beautiful architectures. The sandstone art is a speciality of Puri and showcases the talent of the artisans of the age. One of the most important fairs of Puri is the Chandan Yatra. It is celebrated all over Puri but the enthusiasm and zeal in Puri is unmatched. It is a 42 days long festival and the first 21 days are known as the Bahar Chandan whereas the second half is known as Bhitar Chandan.

Description During the festival, idols of Rama, Krishna, Bhudevi, Madanmohan and Sridevi are brought out in the form of a procession which moves towards the Narendra Tank. An important part of the procession is the image of the Pancha Pandavas which are images of Shiva from fie different temples. In the Narendra Tank, the Pancha Pandavas is placed on decorated boats. The devotees gather near the tank and worship the deities. During the Bhitar Chandan the celebrations and religious rituals take place within the premise of the temple.

Time to celebrate The Chandan Yatra is celebrated in the Indian month of Vaishakha, in April.

Durga Puja

Introduction Durga Puja One of the largest and most elaborate Hindu festivals in West Bengal, the Durga Puja is celebrated with equal enthusiasm in the neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan. It is a festival which unites people from all social backgrounds. The history of Durga Puja dates back to the Hindu epic, Ramayana. In an attempt to save Sita from Ravana, Lord Ram tried to vanquish him. However, a devout follower of Lord Shiva, Ravana could not be conquered. Lord Ram who worshipped Goddess Durga, the wife of Lord Shiva, asked for her mercies and blessings to save his wife from the clutches of Ravana. Although the religious festival dedicated to Goddess Durga is held in spring, Lord Rama in a desperate attempt to save Sita performed the rituals of the Durga Puja in autumn and is hence known as Akal Bodhan.

Description The five days of Durga Puja is a time of the year when all social, political and economic barriers are overpowered by the sense of celebration and festivity. The Durga Puja seems more of a social and cultural gathering rather than a religious one. One of the most important festivals of Orissa, Durga Puja is celebrated on a grand scale. Durga Puja is celebrated differently in different parts of India. The celebration in Bengal and Orissa begins with the building of pandals where the goddess is venerated. The artisans of the city show their work of art by creating innovative and artistic pandals. The rituals include recitation of sholaks and aarti. Devotees dress in new clothes and take active part in the rituals.

Time to celebrate Durga Puja, Orissa is celebrated over 5 days between the 6th and the 10th day of the waxing moon in the month of Ashwin according to the Bengali calendar which corresponds to the months of September and October.

Konark Dance Festival

Introduction Konark Dance Festival, Konark On the banks of the Bay of Bengal is situated the famous archeological and historical site of Orissa, the Konark Temple. A World Heritage Site, the Konark Temple is dedicated to the Sun God. Designed as the chariot of the Sun God, the Konark Temple has 24 wheels each about 10 feet in diameter. The entrance of the temple has seven horses of the chariot. Two lions placed at the entrance are like the gate keepers of the temple. The intricate carvings and the elaborate designs of the 700 year old heritage site of the Konark Temple make it an architectural wonder. The medieval architecture is uniquely used in the temple making it one of the most significant tourist locations in Orissa. Devotees and tourists from Indian and abroad visit the temple all through the year. The Konark Temple is not famous only for the architecture and sculptures but also for the Konark Dance Festival, Konark. The dance festival also draws the attention of many art lovers in India and across the globe.

Description A joint venture of the Orissa Tourism and the Odissi Research Centre, the Konark Dance Festival, Konark is conducted in the amphitheatre of the Konark Temple in Orissa. Experts in different classical dance forms of India, gather together to perform beautiful forms of Indian dance. Classical dances like Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi to name a few are some of the special attractions of the Konark Dance Festival, Konark. Along with classical dances, a fair is organized which displays handmade items, handicrafts and stalls specializing in different cuisines of India. The fair adds a special charm to the colorful dance festival.

Time to celebrate Konark Dance Festival, Konark is held in February every year. The festival is more than a cultural program. It is a boost to the tourism industry as well since tourists interested in the exclusive dance forms of India visit the state during the dance festival.

Makarmela Among the various fairs and festivals in Orissa, the Makarmela deserves a special mention. Celebrated on Makar Sankranti (January 14), this festival is celebrated with great fanfare all over Orissa in India. It is an event when all the towns and villages of the state wear a festive look and a sense of joie de vivre pervades the entire air. The Makarmela Festival is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), who is worshipped with great devotion during this festival. Though the festival is celebrated all over the state, the main action is centered at some places like Ghatgaon, Kalijai, Atri, Keonjhar, Jashipur and Jagatsinghpur. A good number of pilgrims visit these places during the Makarmela, thus making it one of the main events to be celebrated in these centers. The Makarmela is celebrated in mid January because it is the very time when the sun enters the orbit of Capricorn. Besides, the color and gaiety that mark this festival simply make this event an affair to remember for all visitors. The religious fervor that underlies the Makarmela festival of Orissa in India is another factor that adds to its importance.

Makarmela Among the various fairs and festivals in Orissa, the Makarmela deserves a special mention. Celebrated on Makar Sankranti (January 14), this festival is celebrated with great fanfare all over Orissa in India. It is an event when all the towns and villages of the state wear a festive look and a sense of joie de vivre pervades the entire air. The Makarmela Festival is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), who is worshipped with great devotion during this festival. Though the festival is celebrated all over the state, the main action is centered at some places like Ghatgaon, Kalijai, Atri, Keonjhar, Jashipur and Jagatsinghpur. A good number of pilgrims visit these places during the Makarmela, thus making it one of the main events to be celebrated in these centers. The Makarmela is celebrated in mid January because it is the very time when the sun enters the orbit of Capricorn. Besides, the color and gaiety that mark this festival simply make this event an affair to remember for all visitors. The religious fervor that underlies the Makarmela festival of Orissa in India is another factor that adds to its importance.

Puri Beach Festival

Introduction To Puri Beach Festival Puri is a popular tourist destination in Orissa. The place is famous for its religious seat and for its long stretches of golden beaches. Jagannath Temple of Puri is famous among the Hindus. Thousands of devotees from different corners of the country pay their visit to the temple. Puri is the perfect destination for tourists. Here, nature and ethnicity combine to make it a favorite hotspot for travelers. At the time of the Puri Beach Festival the inflow of tourists to Orissa increases manifold. This festival is the best time to imbibe the true essence of Orissa.

Description of Puri Beach Festival Puri Beach Festival of Orissa is an annual event of the state. The festival is not only popular among the domestic tourists but international tourists also who come to feel the true spirit of Orissa. The Puri Beach festival unveils the rich cultural history of Orissa to the tourists. The Beach Festival of Puri is a secular festival and does not bear any religious color. People from various background and culture can take part in this grand occasion. The festival takes place on the Puri beach where different cultural shows take place including traditional dance, music, performing arts. The local stalls display intricate handicrafts and hand woven items like saris, shawls, fabrics, baskets and needle works. The beach festival in Puri is a five-day occasion. Sand art is one of the main attractions in which, budding artists from Orissa art college make wonderful designs and artwork with the sand on the beach.

Time For Celebration of Puri Beach Festival Beach Festival in Puri is a famous cultural festival that takes place in the month of November. In the month of November, Puri remains populated with tourist from different corner of the world. The railways, road and the air route of Orissa keep the state well-connected with different parts of the country.

Taratarini Mela

Introduction To Taratarini Mela India is the land of fairs and festivals. Different states of India bear different cultures and traditions which attract tourists from foreign countries as well as from neighboring states. 5000 years old Hindu culture gives an enriched background to every festival that takes place in India. Orissa is one of the oldest states that hold a glorious past of India. The religious life and the cultural heritage of Orissa can be well evident in the fairs and festivals of Orissa. Taratarini Mela in Orissa is one of the main festivals in Orissa. Taratarini fair is regarded as an important event that gathers various devotees from different corners of the state and the country.

Description of Taratarini Mela Taratarini Mela of Orissa is a significant event that brings thousands of tourists. The fair is an occasion where devotees of different cultures and background come to make the festival a successful one. Taratarini mela takes place at Taratarini Pitha which is 30 kms away from Berhampur. Berhampur is a well-known town in Orissa and is well accessible by railways and road route. The mela draws people from far and wide with its colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Parents bring their children for their well being to the Taratarini Mela.

Time For Celebration of Taratarini Mela Taratarini Mela is celebrated from mid of March to mid of April, which is the month of Chaitra according to Oriya calendar. This fair is one of the eminent fairs in Orissa and locals participate in the fair to make it a grand occasion.

Dhanu Yatra

Introduction To Dhanu Yatra Lord Krishna is an important mythological character in Hindu Mythology. Lord Krishna is worshipped in Orissa and other parts of India with great fervor. The other name of Krishna is Jagannath and Puri is famous for the Jagannath Temple. Dhanu Yatra of Orissa is an important festival that is based on the mythological stories of ‘Bhagawat Purana’. Lord Krishna with his magnificent tales attracts various tourists to take part in this festival of Orissa.

Description of Dhanu Yatra Lord Krishna’s legendary tales draw Hindu devotees from far and wide to experience the rich religious culture of India. Dhanu Yatra of Orissa is based on the story of Krishna who visited Mathura to eyewitness the ceremony of ‘Bow’ organized by Kansa, the then King of Mathura. The word ‘Dhanu’ means ‘Bow’. The festival takes place in the Sambalpur District of Orissa. During this festival tourist gathers from different parts of the state and witnesses various local performances. These performances are held especially in the afternoon. Other entertainment programs and cultural shows make the occasion a colorful one.

Time For Celebration of Dhanu Yatra Dhanu Yatra takes place in the months of December – January. The festival continues for 5 to 11 days after ‘Pausa Purnima’ according to the local calendar. Dhanu Yatra gathers various tourists from different parts of the state as well as from the country. The railway route connects Sambalpur with other parts of the state and the country. Tourists can take the bus as the neighboring cities and states provide bus service at a reasonable rate.

Jagannath Rath Yatra

Introduction Jagannath Rath Yatra Orissa, the erstwhile territory of Kalinga is a land with rich historical and cultural importance. The name, Orissa has been derived from a Sanskrit word, Odra Vishaya also known as Odra Desa. The history of the region dates back many years. The independent state of Orissa was established in 1936. The natural landscape of Orissa is massive and protected from exploitation. This offers natural habitat to a number of animals and birds. Wildlife conservation in the natural habitat is a means of attracting tourists and adventure lovers. One of the most significant wildlife resorts in Orissa is the Nandankanan or the Garden of Gods. Orissa is almost synonymous with the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri. A popular procession, Jagannath Rath Yatra commemorates the journey of Lord Krishna to Mathura.

Description Jagannath Rath Yatra, Puri is celebrated by 7 to 10 lacs devotees who travel to Orissa to be a part of the celebration. The procession of chariots begins in the Jagdish Temple in Jamalpur. The chariots are dedicated to Lord Krishna, his brother Balaram and his sister Subhadra. The procession is followed by elephants who are decorates with colorful clothes and accessories. It is believed that Lord Krishna and his siblings visit Gundecha Ghar, the garden house and after three days they return home. The procession hence returns to the Jagannath Temple after three days. This procession is known as Ultarath. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated in all parts of the country. But the celebration in Puri is special and more elaborate than the other regions of India. All regional, social and political differences are bridged in this procession. People from all parts of the country visit Puri during this time of the year.

Time to celebrate The Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated between the months of June and July. Ensure a trip to Puri during this time of the year to experience an unusual gathering and the unmatched devotion of thousands of people.

Maha Shivaratri Known for its rich heritage and exotic culture, Orissa is beautiful state and a major tourist destination of India. With temples, monuments, beaches, waterfalls scattered all over the state Orissa is indeed a place to be. The state is also known for its various fairs and festivals held throughout the year. Mahashivratri, Jagannath Puri Yatra, Durga Puja etc. are some of the famous fairs and festivals held in Orissa. Dedicated to lord Shiv, Mahashiv Ratri is one of the most important festivals of Hindus and celebrated with great enthusiasm in Orissa. Falling on the 14th day of Phalgun, Maha Shivratri is an important festival of Orissa. On the eve of Maha Shivratri, the devotees observe fast and perform puja throught out the night. Maha Shivratri is celebrated in all parts of Orissa. Mahendragiri, Gupteshwar, Kapilas, Puri, Bhibhaneshwar and Khiching etc. are some of the places in Orissa where the festival of Maha Shivaratri can be best enjoyed. Lingaraj temple and Hakateshwar temple are the two major centers of Shivratri celebration in Orissa. Besides, the Shivratri celebration at Loknath temple in Puri is also very popular in Orissa and is visited by large number of devotees on this holy occasion.

Megha Mela A good number of events adorn the fairs and festivals calendar of Orissa. Among the most popular of events celebrated with great fervor by the people of Orissa is the Megha Mela of Konark. This is an event that draws thousands of pilgrims to this holy town of Orissa. The Megha Mela is held on the 7th day of Magha (the bright half of the month) and can indeed be described as a mass convergence of pilgrims from all over. One can also see a good number of tourists busy capturing the essence of the festival on their camera lenses. A trip to the Megha Mela in Konark, Orissa starts with a dip in the waters of Chandrabhaga Teertha. Devotees can be seen performing this ritual in huge numbers and welcoming the rising sun with fervent prayers. The hum of prayers simply rises to a crescendo as more and more devotees join the congregation to welcome the rising sun. The religious fervor that underlies the Megha Mela is sure to awe many a visitor. Besides, the vibrant presence of color that marks the Megha Mela is another factor that adds to the event’s appeal.

Snana Yatra

Introduction Snana Yatra Puri, the abode of Lord Jagannath is considered an extremely holy destination in eastern India. Devotees from all across the country visit Puri all through the year especially during the Jagannath Festival. The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Orissa is a major centre of attraction for devotees as well as tourists. Constructed in the 12th century by Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev, the temple attracts thousands of people across India and the world. Lord Jagannath, a manifestation of Lord Krishna is worshipped as the Lord of the World. At the Jagannath Temple in Orissa, along with the idol of Lord Jagannath are the idols of his brother Balaram and his sister Subhadra.

Description Snana Yatra is celebrated to commemorate the day Lord Jagannath was born. The celebration includes a special and elaborate bath of the deity. It is known from the Skanda Purana that Raja Indradyumna who installed the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra in the Jagannath Temple in Puri had organized a bathing ceremony. The Niladri Mohadaya which is a religious text written in the local Orissa language relates the rituals of the Snana Yatra ritual. This festival is often believed to be a tribal ritual as the Daitas and Savars, tribal of the region have the sole authority to perform the rituals. The day before the ceremony the deities are brought out of the temple in an elaborate procession to the place where they will be bathed called the Snana-Vedi. The designated area is constructed very high so that visitors outside the temple can also witness the ritual. The festival includes collecting water from the far away jungles where the water is untouched by the animals of the jungle. The priests carry one hundred and thirty gold and copper vessels to the Golden Well or the Suna Kua. With their mouths covered they fill the vessels. The water is then purified by the Brahmin priests. Before the bathing ceremony begins, the deities are covered in silk, decorated and purified with water and incense. Along with the chanting of Vedic mantras, the bathing ceremony is conducted.

Time to celebrate Snana Yatra is organized on the full moon or Purnima in the month of Jyestha.

Taratarini Mela

Introduction To Taratarini Mela

India is the land of fairs and festivals. Different states of India bear different cultures and traditions which attract tourists from foreign countries as well as from neighboring states. 5000 years old Hindu culture gives an enriched background to every festival that takes place in India.

Orissa is one of the oldest states that hold a glorious past of India. The religious life and the cultural heritage of Orissa can be well evident in the fairs and festivals of Orissa. Taratarini Mela in Orissa is one of the main festivals in Orissa. Taratarini fair is regarded as an important event that gathers various devotees from different corners of the state and the country.

Description of Taratarini Mela

Taratarini Mela of Orissa is a significant event that brings thousands of tourists. The fair is an occasion where devotees of different cultures and background come to make the festival a successful one.

Taratarini mela takes place at Taratarini Pitha which is 30 kms away from Berhampur. Berhampur is a well-known town in Orissa and is well accessible by railways and road route. The mela draws people from far and wide with its colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Parents bring their children for their well being to the Taratarini Mela.

Time For Celebration of Taratarini Mela

Taratarini Mela is celebrated from mid of March to mid of April, which is the month of Chaitra according to Oriya calendar. This fair is one of the eminent fairs in Orissa and locals participate in the fair to make it a grand occasion.