Bhubaneswar: Newly sworn-in Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Friday extended his greetings to the people of Odisha on the occasion of ‘Pahili Raja’ (the first day of the three-day long festival celebrating womanhood) by saying that this festival is true example of ‘Odia Asmita’. Taking to X, the CM said: “Greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of Pahili Raja. May this mass festival of Odia tradition and culture bring happiness to the lives of all Odias.” Majhi also visited the State Museum and performed rituals like watering plants to celebrate the agrarian festival.
On the occasion, Majhi said, “My wishes to everybody on the occasion of Pahili Raja. This is first Raja celebration of the new government. People eagerly wait for Raja festival every year and enjoy it with Poda Pitha and Raja Paan. They also enjoy swing rides. This festival is true example of Odia Asmita.” He also paid floral tributes at the statue of freedom fighters of the state, and warriors of Paika Rebellion such as Buxi Jagabandhu, Jayee Rajguru, Chakhi Khuntia and others.
Meanwhile, ‘Pahili Raja’ was celebrated in the Capital city Friday with much fun and fervour. The very first day of the three-day long festival is called ‘Pahili Raja’ which is also considered the last day of the month Jyestha, as per Odia almanac. The second day of the festival signifies the beginning of the solar month of ‘Mithuna’, marking the arrival of monsoon. The third is ‘Bhumi Dahana’ or ‘Sesa Raja’. During this period, it is believed that mother earth menstruates and the land gets ready for agricultural activities with the arrival of monsoon. Extending his wishes on the occasion of Raja Friday, former CM Naveen Patnaik said, “Heartiest greetings and congratulations to all on the occasion of Raja.
May this Raja festival fill everyone’s life with joy and happiness.” The Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) has made special arrangements to provide ‘Pithas’ (types of sweetmeat) during the festival. Celebrate the vibrant festivities of Raja festival with our special menu that features mouthwatering pithas and dishes such as such as Poda Pitha, Kakara Pitha, Khira Pitha, Arisa Pitha, Manda Pitha, Labangalata, Chhena Poda, refreshing Raja Pana and more. The festival celebrated at Patrapada on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar drew huge crowd as the organisers have put up 130 swings for the girls.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
