Maha Vishuba Sankranti 2024
Maha Vishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, is a significant festival celebrated in the state of Odisha, India. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the Odia calendar and is observed with much enthusiasm and fervor. Let’s delve into the history, date, meaning, and how this festival is celebrated.
Maha Vishuba Sankranti History
Maha Vishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, is a festival with deep historical roots in the state of Odisha, India. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the traditional Odia calendar and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The history of Maha Vishuba Sankranti is intertwined with ancient Hindu traditions and beliefs, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region.
The festival has been celebrated for centuries, dating back to ancient times when agricultural communities relied heavily on the rhythms of nature for their livelihoods. Maha Vishuba Sankranti signifies the transition from the spring season to the summer season in Odisha, a time when farmers begin preparations for the upcoming planting season. It is a period of hope and anticipation, as it heralds the arrival of warmer weather and the promise of a bountiful harvest.
Maha Vishuba Sankranti is also associated with various myths and legends from Hindu mythology. According to one legend, the festival is linked to the story of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Odisha. It is believed that Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, embarked on their annual journey to the Gundicha Temple in Puri on this day, known as the Ratha Yatra. The festival thus holds special significance for devotees of Lord Jagannath, who celebrate the occasion with elaborate rituals and processions.
Another popular belief associated with Maha Vishuba Sankranti is that it is the day when Lord Hanuman, a prominent deity in Hindu mythology, was born. Devotees of Lord Hanuman observe the day with prayers and offerings, seeking his blessings for strength, courage, and protection.
Overall, Maha Vishuba Sankranti is a festival steeped in history and tradition, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. It serves as a reminder of the deep connection between humans and nature, highlighting the importance of living in harmony with the natural world.
Maha Vishuba Sankranti Date
- Maha Vishuba Sankranti falls on the 13th of April, 2024, according to the Gregorian calendar.
- The date is determined based on the solar calendar and typically falls around the same time each year.
Pana Sankranti Or Maha Vishuba Sankranti Meaning
- Pana Sankranti is another name for Maha Vishuba Sankranti and is widely used in Odisha to refer to this festival.
- The term “Pana” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Pana,” which means drink or refreshment.
- On this day, people prepare and consume a special drink called “Pana” to beat the summer heat and welcome the new year with a sense of rejuvenation.
Maha Vishuba Sankranti Festival Celebrations in India
Maha Vishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, is a vibrant festival celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm in the state of Odisha, India. The festival marks the beginning of the Odia New Year and is observed with various rituals, customs, and festivities. Here is a glimpse into how Maha Vishuba Sankranti and the traditional celebration Of New Year Day In Odisha is celebrated across different parts of India:
Preparations:
- Homes and streets are cleaned and decorated with colorful rangolis, flowers, and traditional motifs.
- People buy new clothes and items for their homes to mark the festive occasion.
- Special dishes and sweets are prepared in advance for the celebrations.
Rituals and Traditions:
- The festival begins with the offering of prayers to Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Odisha.
- People prepare a special drink called “Pana” using ingredients like sweetened water, milk, curd, and fruits, which is offered to the deity as a part of the rituals.
- The drink is then distributed among family members and friends as a symbol of goodwill and harmony.
Community Celebrations:
- Mela or fairs are organized in various parts of Odisha, where people gather to enjoy cultural performances, traditional music, and dance.
- Traditional games and sports are also organized as a part of the festivities, adding to the joyous atmosphere.
Feasting:
- Special dishes and sweets are prepared for the occasion, including “Pakhala” (fermented rice), “Mitha Pana” (sweetened drink), and various other traditional delicacies.
- Families and communities come together to share meals and celebrate the auspicious day.
Cultural Programs:
- Cultural programs showcasing the rich heritage of Odisha, including folk dances like Odissi, Gotipua, and Chhau, are organized to entertain the crowd.
- Traditional music performances and storytelling sessions are also held, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the festival.
Prayer and Reflection:
- Many people take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and pray for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead.
- Special prayers and rituals are performed in temples and households to seek the blessings of the divine.
Maha Vishuba Sankranti or Odia New Year 2024 is not just a festival but a celebration of life, renewal, and the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. It brings people together in joy and harmony, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
How To Reach Odisha
To reach Odisha, you can choose from various transportation options depending on your starting location. Here are some common ways to reach Odisha:
By Air: The state has several domestic airports, including Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) and Jharsuguda Airport (JRG), which are well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
By Train: Odisha has an extensive railway network, and major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Sambalpur are well-connected to other parts of the country by train. You can check train schedules and book tickets online through the Indian Railways website or app.
By Road: Odisha is well-connected by road, and you can reach the state via national highways and state highways. The state-run Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) operates buses to various cities and towns within Odisha, as well as interstate services. You can easily book bus tickets on AbhiBus and have a hassle free journey. Here are some of the top bus routes of OSRTC
- Berhampur (Orissa) to Bhubaneswar Bus
- Bhubaneswar to Puri Bus
- Jeypore (Orissa) to Berhampur Bus
- Nayagarh (Odisha) to Bhubaneswar Bus
Before planning your trip, it’s advisable to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines, as well as any specific requirements or restrictions due to the ongoing pandemic or other factors.
FAQs
What is Odia New Year called?
Odia New Year is called “Maha Vishuba Sankranti” or “Pana Sankranti” in Odisha. It marks the beginning of the traditional Odia calendar and is celebrated with great fervor across the state.
Why is the Odia New Year called Maha Vishuba Sankranti?
The term “Maha Vishuba Sankranti” is derived from Sanskrit. “Maha” means great, “Vishuba” refers to the equinox, and “Sankranti” signifies the transition of the sun from one zodiac sign to another. It is called so because it falls on the day when the sun enters the Mesha Rashi (Aries) sign, marking the beginning of the new year.
How is New Year celebrated in Odisha?
The New Year in Odisha is celebrated with various rituals and customs. People clean their homes, decorate them with rangolis and flowers, and wear new clothes. Special dishes like “Pakhala” (fermented rice), “Mitha Pana” (sweetened drink), and other traditional delicacies are prepared. There are also community fairs, cultural programs, and traditional games organized to celebrate the occasion.
Where to Celebrate Maha Vishuba Sankranti?
Maha Vishuba Sankranti is primarily celebrated in Odisha, India. The festival is observed across the state, with special significance in cities like Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, and other major towns and villages. These places host various cultural events, fairs, and rituals that showcase the rich heritage of Odisha during this festive period.
When is Maha Vishuba Sankranti 2024?
Maha Vishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, falls on the 13th of April, 2024, according to the Gregorian calendar.
What is the significance of Maha Vishuba Sankranti?
Maha Vishuba Sankranti marks the beginning of the Odia New Year and is celebrated as the onset of the summer season in Odisha. It is a festival that signifies hope, renewal, and the rejuvenation of nature.
How is Maha Vishuba Sankranti celebrated?
Maha Vishuba Sankranti is celebrated with various rituals and traditions in Odisha. People clean their homes and decorate them with colorful rangolis and flowers. They prepare a special drink called “Pana” and offer it to Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Odisha. Community fairs and cultural programs are also organized to celebrate the occasion.
What are some traditional dishes prepared during Maha Vishuba Sankranti?
Some traditional dishes prepared during Maha Vishuba Sankranti include “Pakhala” (fermented rice), “Mitha Pana” (sweetened drink), various sweets, and other delicacies. These dishes are an integral part of the festival celebrations and are enjoyed by families and communities.
