Nuakhai Parab (ନୂଆଁଖାଇ ପରବ)
Nuakhai, also known as Nuakhai Parab or Nuakhai Bhetghat, is a popular agricultural festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a thanksgiving festival where people express gratitude to the gods for a bountiful harvest. The festival is primarily celebrated by the people of Western Odisha, especially in the districts of Sambalpur, Bargarh, Balangir, Sundargarh, and Kalahandi.
When it is Celebrated?
Nuakhai is celebrated on the Panchami Tithi (fifth day) of the Bhadraba month, which usually falls in the month of August or September, depending on the lunar calendar. The word “Nua” means new, and “Khai” means food. Hence, the name Nuakhai literally means “new food.” On this day, farmers offer the first harvest of rice to their presiding deity, who is usually the goddess Samaleswari, Maa Samlei, or Sureshwari.
Rituals and Traditions
The festivities kick off with the offering of the first harvested grains to the deity, symbolizing gratitude and prosperity. Families, led by the eldest member or the village priest, perform traditional rituals to seek blessings for a fruitful year ahead. The act of offering the “Nua” or new rice is a central theme, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between the people and the land.
The preparations for Nuakhai begin a week before the actual festival. The farmers clean their houses and paint them with fresh colors. They also decorate the premises with flowers, mango leaves, and rangolis. On the day of the festival, people wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and offer prayers to their respective deities. After that, they prepare a special dish called “nabanna,” which is made of newly harvested rice mixed with milk, sugar, and coconut.
Nuakhai Juhar: A Gesture of Respect
“Nuakhai Juhar” resonates through the air as people exchange warm greetings and seek blessings from elders. The phrase embodies the spirit of respect and good wishes, reinforcing the sense of community that Nuakhai Parab fosters.
Feast of Flavors
The festival is synonymous with delectable feasts featuring a myriad of traditional Odia dishes. From aromatic rice-based delicacies to regional sweets, the Nuakhai feast is a culinary delight that brings families and communities together in a celebration of abundance.
The festival is also an occasion for family reunions. The family members gather together, wear new clothes, and exchange gifts. The elders bless the younger ones, and everyone relishes the delicious food that is prepared for the occasion. The most popular dishes prepared during Nuakhai are pakhal bhaat (rice soaked in water), santula (a mixed vegetable curry), and pitha (a type of rice cake).
Nuakhai is not just a festival; it is a celebration of life, culture, and traditions. It reflects the deep bond between nature and humans and showcases the importance of agriculture in the lives of the people. The festival has also been recognized as an official state festival of Odisha, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor every year.
Nuakhai is a unique festival that celebrates the abundance of nature and the hard work of farmers. It is a symbol of unity and togetherness, where people forget their differences and come together to celebrate the joy of life.