Sital Sasthi festival, which marks the marriage of Lord Shiva with his consort Goddess Parvati, has gained momentum with the groom’s side finally being able to convince the bride’s side for the marriage.
With the end of Patra Pendi ritual, the Sambalpur city is all set to witness the celestial union of Lord Shiva and Parvati as the divine marriage will be solemnised with all Vedic rituals in the early hours of Saturday.
Like other marriages, the parents of Lord Shiva search for a bride and then send a formal proposal to the parents of Parvati for marriage. This is what happens during ‘Patar Pendi’ where the heads of the locality go to the house of the bride. In this ritual, father of the groom gives a bundle of Sal leaves to the bride’s father.Patar Pendi’ ritual was held in the presence of Jhaduapada Yatra committee and locals. ‘Patra Pendi’ritual was also performed at Mudipada and other places.
After the Patra Pendi ritual was done, ‘Deba Nimantran’ ritual of Balunkeswar Baba was held in which invitation is extended to gods and goddesses in different temples in the town besides the public. God Nrusingh had invited Balunkeswar Baba. Meanwhile, Hanuman will leave for Jhaduapada, Mudipada and other places to distribute marriage cards to invite different deities.
Woman donning the role of Parvati’s mother said, I am blessed to perform ‘Kanyadan ritual of Parbati.”
A local, who dons Shiva’s father role, said, “We finally convinced Maa Parvati’s family after having lots of argument. Mata Parvati has taken birth to tie the knot with Shiva. We are all excited for the gala event which is scheduled to take place on Saturday.”