Orissa
being a land of ancient and sacred temples, and a state where three religions
flourished, is thronged by pilgrims throughout the year. There are a large number
of fairs and festivals celebrated in the state. There are festivals relating
to each religion, tribal festivals, festivals relating to Lord Jagannath, the
presiding deity of the Puri Temple, and many seasonal exhibitions and fairs
as well as special festivals such as the Konark Dance Festival, the Rajarani
Music Festival, the Puri Beach Festival etc..
Rath Yatra : The most famous Orissan festival
is of course the Ratha Yatra or Car Festival (June-July) which attracts pilgrims
and visitors from all over the world. On the full moon day of the month of Jyestha
known as snana Purnima, the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra slid Subhadra are
brought out and bathed on a pendal known as the snarlamandap according to religious
rites.
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Chandan Yatra : Chandan Yatra marks
the conclusion of the cycle of religious festivals observed in the famous shrine
of Lord Jagannth at Puri followed by similar other shrines of Orissa. The festival,
starting from Akshyaya Trutiya, lasts for twenty-one days and is held in the
month of Baisakh at the height of the summer heat when Chandan (sandle-paste)
and water are essential to keep people cool.
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Durga Puja : Durga Puja (September-October)
symbolises the commemoration of good over evil. Life comes to a stand-still
in the city of Cuttack as crowds pour over the Puja Mandaps to enjoy the festivities.
On the day succeeding 'Vijaya Dasami', the last day of Dussera, the images are
taken in a spectacular procession for immersion in the river Kathajodi.
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Dola Purnima ( Holi ) : Dolapwnima or
Holi is the most famous spring festival of India. Usually celebrated in March.
It has special properties in its celebration in Orissa where it is a five day
affair, especially in the rural areas. The images of Krishna are worshipped
form Dashami (10th day of the bright fortnight) to the full moon day.
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Puri Beach Festival : The Puri
Beach Festival is an out and out fun lovers fest. Conducted by the Hotel and
Restaurant Association of Orissa (HRAO), the festival is a celebration of Orissa,
in all its beauty, charm and fun-loving spirit. With events ranging from Fashion
shows to rock shows, the Puri Beach festival.
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Konark Dance Festival : Described
as a poem in stone, the Sun temple at Konark is the crowning glory of the temple
architecture of Orissa. As a fitting tribute to the majestic monument, eminent
classical dancers of India get together during the Konark Festival every year.
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