Sambalpur/Bhubaneswar: In an age when promises are often forgotten, the Pradhan family of Dumalpadar village in Sambalpur district offers a rare and inspiring example of commitment, honesty and community spirit. For more than 150 years, spanning six generations, the family has upheld a tradition born from a single promise made by Madhab Pradhan. What began as an act of hard work has evolved into a living legacy that brings the entire village together every year on the occasion of Magha Purnima.
The story dates back nearly 150 years to Bisei Panda, the Gauntia (landlord) of Kusanpuri village near Dumalpadar, around 22 km from Sambalpur city. He owned several acres of agricultural land, where paddy was the principal crop. Madhab Pradhan worked under him as the chief labourer.
One year, after the harvest season had ended, a 2.08-acre paddy field remained unharvested. Bisei Panda grew anxious, especially as dark clouds gathered, strong winds blew and the threat of storms and rain loomed. He discussed the matter with Madhab Pradhan and asked how many workers would be required to harvest the remaining paddy. He requested Madhab to arrange around thirty labourers to complete the task.
Madhab Pradhan, young, strong and confident, surprised everyone by declaring that he could complete the entire work alone in a single day. Although Bisei Panda trusted him, he was astonished by the claim. He set a condition: if Madhab succeeded, the land would be given to him free of cost. Madhab immediately placed his own condition — if he failed, he would work for Bisei Panda for one full year without wages. The agreement was made in the presence of villagers, and the challenge was set for the following day.
The next morning, before sunrise, Madhab went to the field. Recalling the incident, retired laboratory assistant of Gangadhar Meher University, Debendra Prasad Nath, said that Madhab had explained the entire situation to his wife the previous night and sought her support. She assured him of her full cooperation and began preparing food.
She woke early, completed her household chores and prepared ‘Muhan Pithas’ (rice cakes). By dawn, she had made four Muhan Pithas for her husband and four for herself, each weighing around 2 kg. She also carried a pot (gora) containing 12–15 litres of water. Taking the food and water to the field, she fed Madhab by hand while he worked continuously, cutting the paddy without rest. She broke the pithas into pieces and fed him at intervals. Whenever he felt thirsty, he drank water and immediately returned to work.
“By midday, Madhab observed that more than half the field had already been harvested. Continuing in the same manner, he completed the entire task just before sunset. He then went to Bisei Panda’s house and informed him that the work was complete. The next day, Bisei Panda and his workers inspected the field. Witnessing this extraordinary feat and Madhab Pradhan’s dedication, Gauntia Panda honoured his promise and legally transferred ownership of the land to Madhab Pradhan,” said Debendra Prasad Nath.
At that time, however, it was considered inappropriate to use a Brahmin’s property for personal gain. Madhab Pradhan therefore used the proceeds from the land to build a small temple in Dumalpadar and to feed Brahmins and villagers from nearby villages — including Kusanpuri, Dumalpadar, Bhejikud, Baham and Giripali — on the occasion of Magha Purnima.
Over time, a unique ritual developed. Men from these villages take turns preparing the famous Kakara Pitha, a sweet dish made from wheat flour dough, while women shape it into perfect rounds. After baking, Brahmins are served first, followed by the entire village, from children to elders.
The ritual was never meant to end with Madhab Pradhan. He instructed his son to continue the practice, followed by his grandson. Today, the sixth generation, led by 73-year-old Biranchi Narayan Pradhan, carries forward this tradition, transforming it into a vibrant cultural celebration. Villagers from Dumalpadar, including those who have migrated to distant cities, return every year to take part in the festivities, which have grown into a large community gathering that strengthens shared heritage and social bonds.
Observing the family’s tradition closely, retired agricultural scientist and Biranchi Narayan Pradhan’s classmate, Dr Anantaram Panda, noted that the land continues to be cultivated by the Pradhan family. It is regarded as ‘Gudi Jami’ — land passed down to the eldest son.
Even today, the proceeds are used to feed Brahmins and villagers from Kusanpuri, Dumalpadar, Bhejikud, Baham and surrounding areas during Magha Purnima. The highlight of the tradition is the Kakara Pitha. Men from Dumalpadar and nearby villages prepare it, while women shape it to the perfect size. The culmination of the feast is marked by the Purnahuti — the completion ritual. On February 1 this year, after the Kakara Pitha and other offerings were prepared, the Brahmins partook first, followed by villagers from Dumalpadar and neighbouring areas.
“This sacred ceremony signifies the fulfilment of Madhab Pradhan’s promise and the successful continuation of the tradition. From February 2 onwards, the temple veranda became a centre for daily recitation of the Bhagabata scripture, specifically the 12th Skandha of the Srimad Bhagavata. The recitation continues until the next Magha Purnima, transforming the temple into a space for devotion, community gathering and spiritual reflection. After the completion of the recitation each year, Brahmins from five villages and the general public are invited to a grand feast,” said Dr Panda.
Speaking about the continuation of the ritual, Debendra Prasad Nath added that after the Brahmins finish eating, a towel is placed on the ground and they walk over it. The dust from their feet is considered a blessing for the Pradhan family. This symbolic gesture of faith and respect has been maintained for six generations.
“To honour Madhab Pradhan’s legacy, a merit-based scholarship (Medha Bruti) is planned at Giripali High School for students who top their board examinations, ensuring that his name and values are remembered,” he added.
Biranchi Narayan Pradhan has also pledged that the tradition will continue and that his grandchildren will carry it forward.
Observing the Magha Purnima preparations each year, Dumalpadar resident Rashmi Rekha Padhi said that men come together to prepare Kakara Pitha, while women assist in shaping it.
“Earlier, the pithas were larger and served on sala leaves, but today the size has been reduced for convenience. Villagers from nearby areas also join in, making it a grand celebration of community, devotion and culture,” she said.
From a simple promise kept by Madhab Pradhan over 150 years ago to a six-generation-long cultural practice, the story of the Pradhan family of Dumalpadar stands as a shining example of integrity, devotion and community spirit. The annual harvest, preparation of Kakara Pitha, temple rituals and communal feast reflect a society where promises are more than words — they are a way of life. Even today, as the village comes together every Magha Purnima, the legacy of diligence, honour and shared responsibility continues to inspire each generation, offering a gentle reminder to the younger generation of the strength and meaning found in keeping promises and honouring one’s roots.
