Authentic Indian Handloom Sarees from Odisha
In mid-April, when the summer sun is at its strongest, Odisha welcomes its New Year with Pana Sankranti, also called Maha Bishuba Sankranti. It's a day of temple visits, cooling drinks, family gatherings and fresh beginnings, and a lovely occasion to wear a new handloom saree.
What is Pana Sankranti?
Pana Sankranti marks the first day of the Odia solar month of Baisakha and the start of the traditional Odia calendar. It usually falls on 14 April. Many families also mark it as the birthday of Lord Hanuman, and temples across the state are busy from early morning.
The famous pana drink
The festival is named after pana, a cooling summer drink. Recipes vary by family, but it is often made with water, jaggery, curd or chhena, ripe bael (wood apple) pulp, banana and a little black pepper or cardamom. Pana is offered to the gods and shared with neighbours and guests.
The Basundhara pot
A beautiful custom is hanging a small earthen pot with a tiny hole above the tulsi plant, so water drips slowly onto it through the hot season. This pot, called Basundhara, is a gentle reminder to care for nature in summer.
Other traditions
- Jhamu Jatra: in some areas, devotees walk on fire or thorns as an act of faith.
- Danda Nata: a folk dance-drama performed in parts of Odisha around this time.
- Chhatua: a flour mix of roasted grains and pulses, eaten or offered on the day.
What to wear for Pana Sankranti
It's hot, so think breathable cotton in fresh, bright colours.
- Temple visit: a white or cream handloom cotton saree with a red border, or a light Khandua.
- Family lunch: a Sambalpuri cotton or Pasapalli saree in yellow, orange, mango or leaf green.
- Evening visit: a Kotpad or Bomkai cotton for something earthy and traditional.
For more hot-weather tips, read our summer saree guide.
New year, new saree
In many Odia homes, wearing something new on Pana Sankranti is considered auspicious. A handloom saree makes the tradition even more meaningful because it supports Odisha's own weavers.
Frequently asked questions
When is Pana Sankranti?
It usually falls on 14 April, the first day of the Odia month of Baisakha.
Is Pana Sankranti the same as other new year festivals?
It falls around the same time as Baisakhi, Puthandu, Vishu and Pohela Boishakh, which mark the solar new year in other regions.
Shop for the Odia New Year
Browse our Odisha sarees and order by early April. Free shipping, cash on delivery and easy returns. WhatsApp us at 8093590151. Subha Pana Sankranti!