Bhubaneswar: Once exclusive to Bengali communities, Sindoor Khela has emerged as a beloved tradition in Odisha, transcending cultural boundaries. This joyful ritual, bidding farewell to Goddess Durga, has become a fad across the state.
Sindoor Khela, or vermillion game, originated in Bengal but has gained immense popularity in Odisha. Cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Balasore, and Jaleswar witness enthusiastic participation from locals, regardless of their cultural background.
On the day of Dasami, Odias and Bengalis come together to celebrate this vibrant ritual, fostering unity and camaraderie. “Sindoor Khela breaks cultural barriers,” says Snigdha, an Odia participant from Balasore adding that “We exchange sindur, share laughter, and bid Maa Durga adieu together.”
In recent years, Sindoor Khela has become an integral part of Durga Puja celebrations in Odisha. Puja committees and cultural organizations actively promote this ritual, encouraging wider participation. In several places in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar Sindoor Khela is observed with fanfare.
Baisakhi, a Bengali-speaking resident of Bhadrak, notes, “Initially, only Bengalis participated, but now Odias join in with equal enthusiasm. It’s heartening to see our traditions blend seamlessly. Odia speaking people here have adopted Sindoor Khela with gusto. Local women, irrespective of their cultural background, gather to play with vermillion, seeking Goddess Durga’s blessings. It won’t be wrong to say that it is a celebration of togetherness.
Rupa Das, Bengali resident of Bhubaneswar says, “Sindoor Khela is a special moment for us. As I have been residing in Odisha for so many years, we have been organising Sindoor Khela here. We bid farewell to Maa Durga, seeking her blessings for a prosperous year. As we apply sindur to the goddess’s feet and forehead before applying it to others and we pray for our families’ well-being and happiness. It’s a poignant reminder of our connection to our roots and heritage.”
Sona Sarkar said, “I await Sindoor Khela all year. It’s a time to reconnect with friends, family, and our cultural heritage. We gather at the puja pandal, share laughter, and play with sindur, creating unforgettable memories. Sindoor Khela strengthens our bond with our community and Odia people. Be it Odisha or Kolkata, women never stop playing Sindoor Khela”
Soma Bhattacharya, Bengali resident of Cuttack said, “As we play with sindoor, we forget our worries and immerse ourselves in the festive spirit. It’s a celebration of womanhood and unity. We exchange sindoor, sweets, and warm wishes, reaffirming our friendships and community ties. This tradition is growing popularity in Odisha too with Odia women coming forward in joining our tradition.
Chumki Ghosh, Bengali resident of Balasore, said, “Sindoor Khela reminds me of my childhood memories in Kolkata. Here in Odisha, it’s heartening to see Odia women participating with equal enthusiasm. This ritual has become a beautiful bridge between our cultures, fostering unity and understanding.”
