In the line of festivals celebrated in Odisha, there is one which is unique yet progressive in
it’s the Way- a festival dedicated to celebrating menstruation and womanhood.
This festival is known as ‘Raja Parba’ (Raja Festival) and is celebrated annually for three
days. The word ‘Raja’ derives its meaning from the Sanskrit root word ‘Rajaswala’, which
means menstruating woman. Since this festival is celebrated in the month of Asadha, which
falls in the second week of June, it also marks the end of the summer season and the
beginning of monsoon.
‘Raja Parba’, is dedicated to ‘Bhu Devi’ (Mother Earth), who is considered to be the consort
of Lord Vishnu. These three days indicate the period during which ‘Bhu Devi’ goes through
her menstrual cycle and during this time people refrain from doing any kind of land activity;
be it farming, tilling, plowing, or even construction work to give her ample rest. On the
fourth day, she is given a ceremonial bath known as ‘Basumati Snana’.
The festival begins with ‘Pahili Raja’, and ends with ‘Sesa Raja.’ Girls and women indulge in
fun and frolic. It is their time to rest and celebrate their existence. All of them wear new
clothes and ornaments and apply ‘alata’ on their feet. They play different indoor and
outdoor games, savor Odisha’s specialty called ‘pitha’ and swing on rope swings,
singing away merrily, soaking in the festivity.
“Banaste dakila gaja, Barasake thare asila raja;
Asichi raja lo gheni nua saja baja.”
