Hey Pune peeps, did you catch the vibrant Nuakhai Bhetghat 2024 celebration that took place at Kalpatru Hall on University Road this past Sunday? It was a colorful affair with attendees decked out in traditional Sambalpuri attire, coming together to celebrate this culturally rich agrarian festival that holds great significance for those from Odisha.
Nuakhai, a festival deeply rooted in agricultural traditions in western Odisha, is all about coming together to eat the new crop and show gratitude for the harvest. The event kicked off with a worship ceremony dedicated to Goddess Maa Samaleshwari, where attendees offered new grains from Odisha and enjoyed devotional bhajans performed by women. The exchange of warm greetings and honoring of guests added to the sense of camaraderie in the air.
The celebration featured traditional dances, songs, and musical performances by both children and adults, creating a joyous atmosphere. The rhythmic beats of “Pancha Badya” instruments like the dhol, nishan, tasa, muhuri, and flute filled the hall, courtesy of the talented Runu Jhunu Kalaparishad from Balangir. Special folk dances by Mrs. Prachi Panigrahi had the audience captivated and soon joining in the festive Sambalpuri music.
And let’s not forget about the delicious traditional Odia cuisine on offer! From ‘biri bara’ and ‘ghuguni’ for breakfast to a mouthwatering spread of ‘kheeri,’ ‘puri,’ ‘rasgola,’ and more for lunch, everyone’s taste buds were thoroughly satisfied.
Pune is now the second city after New Delhi to celebrate Nuakhai outside of Odisha, thanks to the hard work of organizers Nibedita, Bandita, Narendra, and the rest of the team. Attendees praised the organizers for a successful event that brought the Odia community in Pune closer together and expressed interest in celebrating more Odisha festivals in the future. It’s not just a festival; it’s a cultural connection for those far from home.
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