Raja Parba: Celebrating Odisha's Festival of Womanhood and Mother Earth

Raja Parba (Raja Sankranti) is one of Odisha's most loved festivals. Celebrated in mid-June at the onset of the monsoon, it honours Mother Earth and celebrates womanhood.

The Meaning of Raja

The word Raja comes from rajaswala. It is believed that during these days Mother Earth rests and prepares for the coming agricultural season. Farming activities such as ploughing traditionally pause.

The Days of Raja

• Pahili Raja – the first day
• Raja Sankranti – the second day, marking Mithuna Sankranti
• Bhu Daha or Basi Raja – the third day

Many communities also observe Vasumati Snana, a ritual bath of Mother Earth, after the festival.

Traditions and Fun

• Young women dress in new clothes and enjoy a break from household chores.
• Swings (doli) are hung from trees, with women singing traditional Raja songs.
• Homes prepare special treats, especially poda pitha.
• Friends and family gather to play games and celebrate together.

What to Wear

Raja falls in the heat of June, so breathable fabrics are best:

• Bright cotton Sambalpuri or Pasapalli sarees
• Cheerful colours – red, yellow, green, pink and orange
• Alta on the feet, glass bangles and flowers in the hair
• For younger girls, half-sarees or Sambalpuri dresses

Gifting for Raja

Gifting new clothes is a lovely Raja tradition – a cotton handloom saree is the perfect present for sisters, daughters and friends.

Shop festive cottons in our Cotton Sarees collection.

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