Between June 14 to 16, 2024 the Raja Parba festival was celebrated in Odisha. Am always in awe of the Indian festivals – they are not just mindless celebrations. There is always meaning and something connected to Nature and our health in these festivals.
The Raja Parba is no different. I had written about it a couple of years back – Raja Parba – Festival of Soil.
This year, Arpita from Duhieta had posted about the Raja and I am reposting it here with her permission.
Raja – Mother Earth’s Festival
“Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Odisha, lies a festival that vibrates with a unique rhythm – the Raja festival, also known as Mithuna Sankranti.
This festival falls in the scorching summer months , marking the transition from the harsh sun to the monsoon’s life-giving embrace. It’s a period of rejuvenation, not just for the parched earth, but also for women.
During Raja the very essence of femininity is placed on a pedestal. It is believed that Mother Earth undergoes menstruation for three days, and on the fourth day that is on “Vasumati Snana” or the ceremonial bath of Mother Earth/Bhumi, the grinding stone as a symbol of Mother Earth is worshipped by women.
Homes transform into vibrant expressions of joy. Floors are adorned with mesmerizing jhotti chitta. Women, dressed in their finest sarees relish delicious pithas. As the festivities unfold, the swing, a symbol of joy and liberation, takes center stage. The air hums with rhythmic songs of “Banaste dakila gaja, barasake thare asichi Raja, gheni kete sajabaja”, creating a melody of sisterhood.
Raja transcends the boundaries of a mere festival. It is a celebration that defies societal norms, shattering stigmas and honouring the life force that sustains humanity. Witnessing Raja is like peering into the soul of Odisha, where femininity is not just acknowledged, but cherished and celebrated.” As written by Arpita.
Just imagine a girlchild being taught about the Raja Parba. It immediately takes the taboo away from menstruation and it makes the child understand how sensitive Mother Earth is. A deep appreciation for the environment is built into each of these festivals. That’s why in India we don’t require a “day” to celebrate and appreciate the environment/Soil/Nature.
The Earth is celebrated as a Goddess, Rivers are worshipped, Animals are worshipped …. and yet sadly we ape the West and the Abrahamic religions that not only demean our faith and beautiful traditions but also try to overpower Nature. You can only live in harmony with Nature – no way can we overpower her.
The Hindu way of living is the true sustainable way of living. Till the world converts to this way, we will continue to talk about sustainability even as we ravage Mother Earth.
Thoughtful article mam. Thanks for shared this. It is true mam Already we are honour nature in many ways. Animals, plants, earth. But it gets popular when westerners promotes it.
Yes Gopinath. We have to stop looking for Western approval 🤣🤣