Confusion over dates of Kumar Purnima and Gajalaxmi Puja leaves Odisha devotees in a bind

Confusion prevails across Odisha over the observance of Kumar Purnima and Gajalaxmi Puja, which are traditionally celebrated on the same day. This year, however, a deviation in the lunar calendar has led to a mismatch in dates, Gajalaxmi Puja will be observed on Monday, while Kumar Purnima will be celebrated on Tuesday. 

The differing dates have left many, especially young girls observing Kumar Purnima rituals, uncertain about the correct day for the celebrations.

As per reports, several almanacs have listed Monday as the day for Kumar Purnima, whereas at the PuriSrimandir, the festival is scheduled to be observed on Tuesday. The conflicting dates have added to the confusion among devotees and traditional observers across the state.

Astrologer Explains Traditional Observances

Astrologer Harishankar Mishra explained the significance of the occasion. “As per traditions, unmarried girls especially celebrate Kumar Purnima Puja. They wear new clothes and eat a moon-shaped sweet made of chena in a secret spot, praying for a husband like Lord Kartikeya. 

Another importance of this festival is that girls and women who observe Janhi Osha complete it on this day. Gajalaxmi Puja is also observed alongside Kumar Purnima Puja, he said.

He further clarified, “According to our almanacs and Utkal traditions, the Kumar Purnima tithi begins on Monday afternoon and ends on Tuesday morning around 9:27 a.m. At Puri Srimandir, the puja will be observed on Tuesday, but across Odisha, girls will perform the Kumar Purnima rituals on Monday.”

Government Holiday Adds to the Confusion

He further said, "The confusion deepened as the Odisha Government declared the Kumar Purnima Puja holiday on October 7, which falls on Tuesday. The state government issues its holiday list based on the English calendar, which is published at the beginning of the New Year, while Odia almanacs are released on April 14."

He added, "If the government decides, the holiday can be shifted to Monday instead of Tuesday, October 7, to align with the traditional observance of Kumar Purnima across most parts of the state."