Pahili Day
June 14, Saturday
Odisha
When is it celebrated?
Pahili Day is celebrated annually on June 14, the day before the start of Raja Sankranti, the first day of the month of Ashadha in the Indian calendar.
Purpose of the celebration
The purpose of Pahili Day is to recognize:
* Respect for women and their role in society
* Natural cycles related to farming and menstruation
* Suspension of agricultural work for three days as a sign of respect for the Earth
How the holiday is celebrated
On Pahili Day, people in Odisha:
* Clean homes and kitchens in preparation for the festival
* Women wear new sarees, decorate themselves with red paste (alatha), and sing folk songs
* Decorated flower swings (Raja Doli) are installed and enjoyed
* Women are freed from household chores and spend time playing and relaxing
* Traditional sweets like Poda Pitha, Chakuli Pitha, and Enduri Pitha are prepared
Interesting facts
* The festival is linked to the belief that the Earth undergoes menstruation for three days
* During Raja Parba, women do not perform household duties and rest
* The celebration includes singing folk songs, setting up swings, and cooking traditional foods
* In Odisha, Pahili Day is a public holiday