Nuakhai – Significance, Celebrations, Date & History

Nuakhai is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. It is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by the people of Odisha, especially the rural population. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and is a symbol of prosperity and abundance. It is celebrated in the month of Bhadra, which usually falls in the month of August-September. The festival is celebrated with great fanfare and is considered to be an important festival in the state.

History of Nuakhai

Nuakhai is a centuries-old festival that has been celebrated in Odisha since ancient times. It is believed to have originated in the pre-Aryan era and has been passed down through generations. The festival is believed to be a way of thanking the gods for the abundance of harvest and seeking their blessings for the coming year.

When to Celebrate Nuakhai

Nuakhai is celebrated on the day of Bhadra Sankranti, which falls on the first day of the lunar month of Bhadra. It usually falls in the month of August-September. The exact date of the festival varies every year and is determined by the lunar calendar.In 2023 it will be celebrated on 20th September.

Significance of Nuakhai

Nuakhai is an important festival that marks the beginning of the harvest season. It is celebrated to thank the gods for the abundance of harvest and to seek their blessings for the coming year. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and is a symbol of prosperity and abundance. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the joyous occasion.

How to Celebrate Nuakhai

Nuakhai is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. On the day of the festival, people wake up early in the morning and take a bath. They then offer their prayers to the gods and seek their blessings. After the prayers, the first grains of the new harvest are offered to the gods and distributed among family and friends. People then enjoy a feast of traditional delicacies and exchange gifts with each other.

The day is generally spent in merriment and celebration. People engage in traditional folk dances and sing folk songs. The festival is also marked by the exchange of gifts and tokens of love and affection.

Summary

Nuakhai is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. It is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by the people of Odisha, especially the rural population. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and is a symbol of prosperity and abundance. It is celebrated on the day of Bhadra Sankranti, which falls on the first day of the lunar month of Bhadra. On the day of the festival, people wake up early in the morning and take a bath. They then offer their prayers to the gods and seek their blessings. After the prayers, the first grains of the new harvest are offered to the gods and distributed among family and friends. People then enjoy a feast of traditional delicacies and exchange gifts with each other. The day is generally spent in merriment and celebration.

You can explore other festivals such as Karam and Makar Sankranti.

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