Bhubaneswar/Sambalpur: On Tuesday, residents of western Odisha celebrated Nuakhai, a significant agricultural festival, where families offered the season’s first harvest to local deities and sought blessings from their elders.
This festival is primarily recognized in districts such as Sambalpur, Baragada, Jharsuguda, Balangir, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Debagarh, and Sundaragada, with celebrations also taking place in parts of Boudh and Angul.
Many individuals traveled from various regions of the state and beyond to join their families in the festivities.
President Droupadi Murmu, a native of Odisha, along with Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik, offered their greetings to the community during this occasion.
Murmu emphasized that Nuakhai is more than just a cultural event; it represents social and familial bonds fostered through shared meals and gatherings. “I believe that through this festival, mutual goodwill and harmony will be further strengthened. On the occasion of Nuakhai, I wish everyone happiness, peace, and prosperity,” she noted in a social media message.
Majhi conveyed his wishes for joy, peace, and prosperity, expressing hope that the blessings of Mother Samaleshwari would enrich the lives of the people.
Patnaik also shared a heartfelt “Nuakhai Juhar” with the public, while state Congress president Bhakta Charan Das extended his greetings as well.
Traditionally, Nuakhai serves as a gesture of gratitude for a fruitful harvest, sufficient rainfall, and favorable weather for farming. The first crops are presented to the deity as part of the festivities.
The head of each household performs rituals for their family deity, offering newly harvested rice and other delicacies, which are later shared as prasad among family members. Following these rites, families come together to enjoy a meal.
A notable custom during the festival is ‘Nuakhai Juhar,’ where younger individuals pay their respects to elders, seeking their blessings for longevity, health, happiness, and prosperity. In rural areas, residents also visit nearby elders to express their good wishes.
In the evening, social groups and community organizations host ‘Nuakhai Bhetghat’ events, while various cultural activities are organized in villages and towns to celebrate the occasion.
