Sudipta tells us about Raja, the menstruation festival of Odisha, a fertility rite. An exclusive for Different Truths.

Raja is the most unique and unconventional festival of Odisha. The cultural heritage of Odisha is rich and magnificent enough to evoke awe and beauty in the mind of an outsider. Hence Odisha stands stupendously indifferent to celebrating this festival over the years. Raja is otherwise known as a ‘Menstruation Festival’, where the term fertility otherwise known as the ability to reproduce is worshipped as well.

Women are pampered and privileged with special treatments. The word menstruation is still taboo to even utter in different parts of our country. Still, now we are getting various illogical infuriating ideas about the term menstruation. However, Odisha is an agrarian society that co-relates the fertility of harvest to that of a woman in this Raja Parba. Raja comes from the term Rajaswala, which means a menstruating woman. It is a prevalent notion that Basudha (Earth) conceived as a feminine entity goes through the three consecutive days of the periodic cycle and receives a ceremonial bath on the fourth day. 

The first day is signified as Pahili Raja. The second day is perceived as Mithun Sankranti and the third day is termed as Sesa Raja. The fourth day is called Vasumati Snana. These fourth days have their exclusive significance. All types of agricultural work are postponed during these three days. Like the reproductive ability of a woman, our Mother Earth is also believed to reproduce in the same way.

So, the land goes through regeneration. Not a single work of cultivation is practiced during these three days. Even in rural areas, girls are prohibited from walking around. Rather they use sandals made from banana trees which are known as Patoka. So, women and girls are given the best opportunities to look good in gorgeous outfits with a decorative bindi. Alta is the most special makeup item in Raja. Even Mehendi is one of the indispensable materials for decorating hands.

Authentic cuisine like rice cakes is being made in houses with the value of spreading happiness and the charm of unity between families and friends. The rich tradition and culture of Odisha are marvellously portrayed through the celebration of Raja. Different types of indoor and outdoor games are being played to spread happiness and oneness between family members.

Women and girls are given a complete break from all household activities. They are mostly seen spending their time on swings during these three days.  The fourth or the last day observes the ceremonial bath of Vasumata, which justifies the end of the menstruation period of our Mother Earth. Last but the least there are no atmospheric changes that occur during these periods. The advent of the rainy season with the departure of the summer season with a gift of ample production of fruits and vegetables brings joy to the hearts of everyone. Hence celebration and merrymaking add special charm to this festival. 

Raja, which is an agricultural festival of Incredible Odisha, however, worships Mother Earth as the perineal source of all reproduction and regeneration processes. Similarly, the Raja festival also reinforces a woman who is bestowed with the divine power of recreation.

Picture design by Anumita Roy, Different Truths

Dr. Sudipta Mishra

Dr Sudipta Mishra is an Indian author and poet. She is an erudite scholar of English language literature in the Puri District of Odisha. She is a source of inspiration for the young generation of this country. Her free verse in romantic and melancholic poems is appreciated around the world. She has penned more than a hundred articles.

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