Holy Kartika month ends, but Odisha’s non-veg markets brace for a quiet Thursday dampening Chhadakhai spirit

The holy month of Kartika, marked by fasting, devotion, and strict vegetarianism, has come to a close. With its conclusion, Odisha gears up for Chhadakhai, the day when people resume eating non-vegetarian food after a month of abstinence.

It is a day when the meat market, after bearing a deserted look during the period of Panchuka (the final five days of Kartika Masa that is observed with strict absenteeism), finally springs into life with a flourish, with every kind of meat and fish on display.

A Thursday Dampens Chhadakhai Spirit!

However, this year, Chhadakhai has coincided with a Thursday, a day many consider inauspicious for consuming meat and fish.

Also Read: People across Odisha celebrate Kartika Purnima; know significance of the festival

Because of this coincidence, the enthusiasm among non-vegetarian food lovers appears subdued, leaving traders anxious about sluggish business.

“Usually, Chhadakhai brings record sales every year. But since it falls on a Thursday, we are expecting a 20–30% dip in sales,” said a trader from Unit-IV Market in Bhubaneswar.

Last year, the combined meat and fish sales in the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack had crossed Rs 8 crore, with long queues at poultry, mutton, and seafood shops from early morning. Prices of chicken, mutton, and prawns had also seen a sharp rise due to high demand.

This year, however, many meat lovers plan to celebrate Chhadakhai tomorrow on Friday, hoping to maintain the spirit of the festival while respecting Thursday’s religious sentiments.

Despite the expected slowdown, traders remain optimistic that the weekend will bring a rebound in sales and cheer to Odisha’s bustling non-veg markets.