The Indian state of Orissa (Odisha) is located on the east coast of the country. Orissa is surrounded by the following Indian states -West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh and it covers a total area of about 155,820 square kilometer. Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Orissa. In totality, Orissa is divided into thirty districts. The state is home to a number of amazing monuments, terrific ancient temples, beautiful sacred places, local shrines, breathtaking lakes and beaches, rich wildlife and wildlife sanctuaries, enchanting natural landscapes etc.
One can witness a perfect blend of modern and ancient civilization in this state. Orissa is perhaps the most captivating and extraordinary Indian state because of the unrivalled legacy of architecture and the vibrant and diverse living cultures of the residents of Orissa.
An interesting thing to note about Orissa is that the tourists belonging to the different parts of the world usually visit the state to witness the different festivities that are celebrated here with pure passion and dedication. The festivals celebrated in Orissa are closely associated with spiritual and religious sentiments, mythology, history of Orissa, science and so on. The inhabitants of Orissa celebrate the customary festivals. But along with the customary festivals, one can witness the celebration of a number of tribal festivals as well in the state. These tribal festivals are well-known for their color, spirit and energy.
Some of the festivals of Odisha are very similar to the ones celebrated in the northern part of India. However, these have different names in the state of Orissa and are also celebrated in quite different ways. The festivals normally revolve around things such as feasting, music, dance, distributing sweets, worshipping the Gods and Goddesses, decorating the homes, exchanging goodwill, wearing brand new clothes and so on. All throughout the year, Orissa is engaged in some festival celebration or the other.
Here is a look at some of the major festivals celebrated in Orissa:
Chariot Festival or Rath Yatra
During the mid-summer time which means in the month of June-July, the idols of Subhadra, Balabhadra and Jagannath are carried around the city of Puri in beautifully decorated raths or chariots for twenty-one days (every evening) to the Narendra Tank. The chariots for the three idols are lavishly constructed during the months of April-May. Millions of worshippers of Lord Jagannath gather on the streets of Puri to get the ultimate chance to pull the chariot of the Lord. The Rath Yatra resembles the journey of Sri Krishna from Gokul to Mathura.
Durga Puja
This festival is not only celebrated pompously in West Bengal but it is also celebrated lavishly in the state of Odisha. Durga Puja celebrations take place during the months of September and October. In Orissa, the festival continues for about 3 days. During the 3 days, pujas take place in the beautifully decorated pandals that are setup in different parts of the state. Devotees visit the puja pandals to worship the Goddess of Power and to enjoy themselves. On the 4th day, the idols of Durga Maa are immersed in the nearest tank or river and the celebrations thus come to an end.
Konark Dance Festival
This festival takes place at the Sun Temple situated in Konark which is surely an architectural wonder of the state. As a tribute to this enchanting monument, renowned classical dancers get together from 1st of December to 5th of December every year to present classical dance performances live in the exquisitely designed dancing hall of the Sun Temple.
Puri Beach Festival
In order to celebrate the splendid and true Oriya spirit, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha conducts the Puri Beach Festival every year on the Sea Beach, Swargadwara.
Kalinga Mahotsava
In February every year, this Mahotsava takes place for two days at the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. With the effective use of music and dance, the rich martial art tradition of India is displayed during this festival.
Some other popular festivals of Odisha are: Chandan Yatra, Dola Purnima, Bali Yatra, Lakshmi Puja, Deepavali, Visvakarma Puja, Karama Festival and so on.