Bhubaneswar: The festive atmosphere of Samba Dasami, a significant festival in Odisha, was palpable across the state today, with Surya Puja being performed in every household. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists gathered at various sacred spots, especially Chandrabhaga, to witness the sunrise over the sea and offer prayers to the Sun God.
The occasion is considered highly auspicious, with devotees believing that worshipping the Sun God on this day brings blessings for disease-free lives for their family members.
On the occasion of Samba Dasami, the Surya Rath Yatra and Soura Mahayagna are being performed in Konark. The Surya Ratha Yatra will continue for 27 days in Chandrabhaga, drawing tourists from far and wide. At Chandrabhaga, devotees thronged the shores to worship the Sun God, offering traditional delicacies like Kakara and Poda Pitha.
Legend Behind the Celebration
The Samba Dashami festival is steeped in legend, dating back to the Dwapar Yuga. According to myth, Lord Krishna cursed his son Samba to suffer from leprosy. When Samba pleaded for mercy, Lord Krishna advised him to worship the Sun God. Samba undertook severe penance on the banks of the Chandrabhaga Sea for 12 long years, pleasing the Sun God and recovering from his affliction. During this period, he also recovered an idol of the Sun God from the river, which is now revered by devotees.
