Sambalpur: The three-day-long Sital Sasthi festival began with much enthusiasm and religious fervour here as also elsewhere in the state Sunday night.
Legend has it that the festival marks the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, as is depicted in the Shiva Purana.
On the auspicious occasion, two married couples have been chosen to play the roles of parents of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Last night, the groom was taken to the bride’s place in a grand procession. The marriage ceremony followed with hours of rituals. The bride’s father or the Kanyapita gave a dowry comprising jewellery and furniture to the groom’s family.
People in the city remained awake throughout the night to witness the divine marriage ceremony. The festival will continue till Tuesday.
PNN