Sabitri Brata festival in Odisha

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Sabitri Brata is a cherished tradition in Odisha, symbolizing love, devotion, and the eternal bond between a husband and wife. The festival showcases the cultural richness and deep-rooted beliefs of the people, making it a special occasion filled with faith and togetherness.

Sabitri Brata, also known as Sabitri Osa, is a significant traditional fasting ritual observed by married women in the Indian state of Odisha. This festival is dedicated to the goddess Sabitri, who is worshipped for the well-being and long life of their husbands.

Timing and Significance: Sabitri Brata is usually observed on the Amavasya (new moon day) in the month of Jyestha, which falls in May or June as per the Hindu calendar. The fasting typically lasts for a full day, starting from sunrise to sunset. Married women pray fervently to maintain their marital bliss and ensure the longevity of their spouses during this auspicious occasion.

Rituals and Observance: On the day of Sabitri Brata, women wake up early, take a purifying bath, and offer prayers to the sun god. They dress in traditional attire, adorn themselves with vermilion, and wear new jewelry. Following this, they observe strict fasting, abstaining from food and water until the conclusion of the ritual at sunset. The fast is broken by consuming a special meal that includes fruits, sweets, and other traditional delicacies. Women also listen to stories and legends related to the goddess Sabitri.

Celebration and Customs: The Sabitri Brata festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Odisha, with women coming together to observe the fast and perform rituals with devotion. In many households, married women receive gifts and blessings from their elders as a token of reverence for their commitment to the ritual. The festival not only strengthens the marital bond but also promotes unity and solidarity among women in the community.

 

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