Bhubaneswar: The auspicious moment, or ‘Lagna,’ for Nuakhai, Western Odisha’s prominent agrarian festival, has been finalised. The ‘Nabanna Lagna’ for Nuakhai has been fixed between 10:33 AM to 10:55 AM on August 28, 2025. During this time, newly harvested rice, known as ‘Nabanna,’ will be offered to Goddess Samaleswari, the presiding deity of Sambalpur.
The schedule was finalised by the Brahmamandap Pandit Mahasabha. It was fixed on Nandotsav day, a day after Janmastami.
Nuakhai is celebrated on the Panchami tithi of the Odia month of Bhadrab, bringing together family members and promoting unity, gratitude, and blessings. The festivities include lively rituals, traditional music, and exchanging warm greetings. The tradition of ‘Nuakhai Juhar’ is an integral part of the celebration, where individuals seek blessings from elders and neighbours, fostering unity and forgiveness.
The festival showcases Western Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, with vibrant Sambalpuri attire, energetic folk dances, and traditional cuisine. It’s a time for people to come together, put aside differences, and celebrate the bounty of the harvest season
