Bhubaneswar: On the auspicious occasion of Pahili Raja, President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Deputy Chief Ministers Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida extended their warm greetings to the people of Odisha.
‘Raja,’ one of the most prominent festivals in Odisha, is a celebration of fertility, womanhood, and agricultural prosperity.
The three-day festival marks the onset of the monsoon and is deeply rooted in the cultural and agrarian traditions of the state. It is believed that during this period, the Earth, symbolized as a woman, undergoes menstruation and requires rest and rejuvenation, much like women do.
“On the occasion of Raja, I extend my heartfelt greetings to my dear fellow citizens. With the arrival of the rainy season, this agricultural festival is celebrated for three days across Odisha’s villages with offerings to Mother Earth, traditional sweets, swings, cultural activities, and delicious food. Through this festival, we are inspired to live in harmony with nature. On this special occasion, I wish happiness and prosperity to the people of the state and the entire country,” said President Droupadi Murmu in a post on social media platform X.
Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati also conveyed his wishes via social media, stating, “On the occasion of the agriculture-based popular festival Raja, I extend my greetings and congratulations. May the timeless spirit of this festival remain an inspiration for all.”
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the cultural and agricultural importance of the festival.
In his message, he said, “Raja festival is one of the most important farming celebrations in Odisha. It is an integral part of our Odia culture. People observe this festival joyfully at home while worshipping Mother Earth. I extend my warm greetings to all and wish happiness and prosperity to the farmers and people of the state.”
“Heartfelt greetings to everyone on the occasion of Odisha’s popular festival Raja. This unique tradition of honoring the soil and Mother Earth brings joy and happiness into everyone’s lives. #RajaParba,” said Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on social media.
“The Earth rejoices as the first showers usher in the cherished festival of Raja! On this auspicious occasion of Pahili Raja, a sacred celebration honoring Mother Earth and the divine essence of womanhood, I extend my heartfelt wishes to the people of Odisha. May this festival bring joy, prosperity, and renewed energy as we celebrate the spirit of renewal and empowerment. Let the festivities reflect our deep cultural roots and unwavering respect for nature and womanhood,” posted Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on X.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also shared her wishes with the people, stating, “Heartfelt greetings and congratulations on the special festival of Odisha, Raja.”
As people across the state engage in the celebrations—with swings, traditional delicacies like poda pitha, and folk songs—the leaders’ messages underscore the enduring cultural significance of Raja Parba in Odisha’s social and spiritual fabric.
