Odia Calendar 2023 Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide To Festivals And Celebrations
Introduction
As a native of Odisha, India, I have always been fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of my state. Odisha is known for its vibrant festivals, and the Odia calendar is filled with holidays throughout the year. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive guide to the major events and festivals in the Odia Calendar 2023.
What is the Odia Calendar?
The Odia Calendar, also known as the Oriya Calendar, is a traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in Odisha. It is based on the cycles of the moon and is used to determine auspicious dates for festivals, weddings, and other important events. The Odia Calendar 2023 is a list of holidays and festivals that will be observed in the year 2023 according to this calendar.
Major Events and Festivals in the Odia Calendar 2023
The Odia Calendar 2023 is filled with a variety of festivals and celebrations. Here are some of the major events:
Makar Sankranti (January 14)
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is a major harvest festival celebrated across India, and in Odisha, it is known as Makar Mela. People take a dip in holy rivers and offer prayers to the Sun God.
Maha Shivratri (February 21)
Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in Odisha. People fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva, and many visit the famous Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.
Holi (March 17)
Holi is a colorful festival of love and joy celebrated across India. In Odisha, it is known as Dol Purnima or Dol Jatra. People smear each other with colors and enjoy traditional sweets like gujiya and thandai.
Ratha Yatra (July 4)
Ratha Yatra is a major festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha. It is a grand chariot festival where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are taken out in a procession on chariots. The festival attracts millions of devotees from across the world.
Ganesh Chaturthi (September 1)
Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Odisha, especially in Cuttack. People install idols of Lord Ganesha in their homes and offer prayers and sweets.
Durga Puja (October 5-9)
Durga Puja is a major festival celebrated across India, especially in West Bengal and Odisha. It is a five-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, and people offer prayers and perform traditional rituals. In Odisha, the festival is known as Dussehra.
Diwali (October 23)
Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated across India. In Odisha, it is known as Kali Puja or Deepavali. People light diyas and candles, decorate their homes, and enjoy traditional sweets like rasgulla and chhena poda.
Conclusion
The Odia Calendar 2023 is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. The festivals and celebrations listed in the calendar are an integral part of the state’s identity and are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. As a native of Odisha, I feel proud to be a part of this vibrant culture and look forward to celebrating these festivals with my family and friends.
Question & Answer
Q. What is the significance of Makar Sankranti in Odisha?
A. Makar Sankranti is a major harvest festival in Odisha, and people take a dip in holy rivers to wash away their sins. It is also believed to mark the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season.
Q. What is the significance of Ratha Yatra in Puri?
A. Ratha Yatra is a grand chariot festival where the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are taken out in a procession on chariots. The festival is believed to be a symbol of the journey of the soul from materialism to spirituality.