TV
Odisha is abuzz with fun, frolic, festivities, flavor, and tradition as the vibrant three-day Raja festival draws to a close on Monday.
From remote villages to bustling urban centers across the state, celebrations are continuing with zeal and grandeur, marking the final day of this cherished festival dedicated to womanhood and the onset of the monsoon.
Fragrance of tradition fills homes
Every Odia household is wrapped in festive aromas, as traditional delicacies like poda pitha and manda pitha are simmering on stoves, filling the air with nostalgia and warmth. The scent of these age-old treats has become synonymous with Raja, symbolizing the culinary richness of the region.
Swings, sarees and sisterhood
The heart of Raja festival is beating strongest among young women and girls, who are embracing the occasion dressed in vibrant new attire. Adorned with bangles and new dresses, they are gathering in groups to enjoy swings-known locally as Raja doli—set up in courtyards and under banyan trees, singing folk songs and sharing laughter.
From generation to generation
From children to elders, everyone is partaking in the celebrations. A common thread running through the festivities is the Raja paan-betel leaves offered as a gesture of affection and festivity. Communities are coming together in the spirit of joy, marking a cultural moment that bridges tradition and modernity.
Must Read: Odisha celebrates womanhood with pride during Raja, while many others still stigmatise
More than a festival, Raja stands as a celebration of womanhood, fertility, and the rhythms of nature.
As the final day unfolds, Odisha’s festive mood is reflecting a deeper reverence for tradition, seasonal change, and the vibrant role of women in cultural life.
Raja celebrations at different places
As per reports, while girls in Salipur under Cuttack district celebrated the last day of Raja by enjoying swings and traditional delicacies like 'poda pitha' and paan, boys were found playing kabaddi.
"Today is the last day of Raja and we are enjoying every moment of it to the hilt. We are enjoying poda pithas, other traditional cakes and Odia delicacies. We also enjoyed Raja swing and visited the houses of many friends. We are feeling sad that Raja will culminate today and we have to wait for another year for the grand festival," said a girl.
As per reports, there was grand celebration at Dhakulei Pitha in Pratap Nagari. Girls were found enjoying the grand festival in nearly 50 swings. Huge number of tourists visited the shrine to enjoy the festival.
"Raja festival is celebrated at Dhakulei Pitha in a grand manner and we are fully enjoying it. We are also participating in different competitions here," said a girl.
"Raja is a unique festival of Odisha. We are organising the festival at Dhakulei Pitha in a grand manner for the last few years. We are organising various competitions here by keeping the tradition of the festival intact," said an organiser.
