Odisha is in the midst of celebrating Raja Parba, a vibrant three-day festival—Pahili Raja, Mithuna Sankranti, and Basi Raja—honouring Mother Earth’s regenerative cycle, aligned with the onset of the monsoon.

Rooted in agrarian tradition, Raja symbolises the Earth undergoing her annual 'menstruation', during which all agricultural work is paused to let her rejuvenate. It coincides with the solar month of Mithuna and brings relief from intense pre-monsoon heat.

The focus on womanhood is deeply poignant. Young girls and women adorn themselves in new sarees, vibrant jewellery, alta-decorated feet, and indulge in leisure—swinging on decorated bamboo swings, singing folk songs, and enjoying traditional pithas and mitha paan. Symbolic abstinence from chores mirrors the Earth’s own reprieve, fostering respect and empathy.

Rituals culminate on the fourth day with Basumati Snana, where grinding stones symbolising Bhudevi (Earth Goddess) receive a ceremonial turmeric-and-flower bath, signifying purification and readiness for planting.

This unique festival is also a powerful social statement, breaking menstrual taboos by celebrating natural cycles. It reinforces Odisha’s rich cultural legacy, integrating environmental mindfulness with feminine reverence—a tradition drawing attention and admiration nationwide.