Celebrating New Beginnings: Pana Sankranti Ushers in the Odia New Year

As the sun sets on April 13th, 2024, communities across Odisha will come together to celebrate Pana Sankranti, marking the onset of the Odia New Year with traditional fervor and joyous festivities.

Welcoming the New Year: Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Bishuba Sankranti, holds a special place in the hearts of Odias as it symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and the arrival of the spring season. This auspicious occasion is observed on the first day of the Odia solar calendar month of Mesha, coinciding with the Hindu solar calendar’s Mesha Sankranti.

The Essence of Pana: At the heart of Pana Sankranti celebrations lies the preparation and sharing of the quintessential “pana” drink. Made from a delightful blend of ripe mangoes, coconut, jaggery, yogurt, and water, pana embodies the essence of this joyous festival. Families gather to prepare this sweet and refreshing concoction, sharing it with loved ones and neighbors as a symbol of goodwill and communal harmony.

Religious Observances: Devotees throng temples dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Hanuman, Shiva, and the Goddess Devi, offering prayers and seeking blessings for the new year. The air is filled with the melodious chants of hymns, echoing the spirit of devotion and gratitude.

Cultural Extravaganza: Pana Sankranti is not just a religious festival but a celebration of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Colorful folk dances such as dalkhai and ghoomar captivate audiences, while traditional music performances fill the air with melodious tunes. Intricate designs of “jhoti chita” adorn homes, adding to the festive ambiance.

Feasting and Merrymaking: As families gather for grand feasts, the aroma of traditional Odia delicacies like pakhala, dalma, and various sweets permeates the air. The culinary delights are complemented by the sweet and cooling pana, creating a gastronomic experience like no other.

Global Celebrations: While Pana Sankranti is deeply rooted in Odia culture, its celebrations transcend geographical boundaries. Odia communities around the globe come together to partake in the festivities, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.

A Message of Renewal: As the people of Odisha usher in the new year with Pana Sankranti celebrations, they embrace the spirit of renewal, community, and gratitude. The festival serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless traditions that bind them together, promising a year filled with joy, prosperity, and harmony.

As the auspicious moment of Pana Sankranti approaches at 9:15 PM, let us join hands in celebrating this vibrant festival, heralding the dawn of a new era filled with hope and promise. Happy Pana Sankranti to all!

See Also- Pohela Boishakh: Celebrating the Bengali New Year with Joy and Tradition