Odia Calendar 2023 November: A Guide To Festivals And Events

Odia Calendar 2023 November: A Guide To Festivals And Events

Introduction

As someone who grew up in Odisha, I have always been fascinated by the rich culture and traditions of my state. One of the most important aspects of this culture is the Odia calendar, which is filled with festivals and events that are celebrated throughout the year. In this article, I will be focusing on the month of November 2023 and the various festivals and events that are scheduled to take place during this time.

The Odia Calendar

The Odia calendar, also known as the Hindu calendar, is based on the lunar cycles and is used to determine the dates of various festivals and events. It follows a complex system of calculations and is closely linked to the movements of the sun and the moon. The calendar is divided into 12 months, each of which is named after a different constellation.

Events and Festivals in November 2023

November 2023 is an important month in the Odia calendar, as it marks the beginning of the winter season. There are several festivals and events that are scheduled to take place during this time, including:

• Kartik Purnima: This is one of the most important festivals in the Odia calendar and is celebrated on the full moon day of the Kartik month. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu took the form of Matsya, the fish, and rescued the Vedas from the demon Hayagriva. Devotees take a dip in holy rivers and perform puja to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
• Boita Bandana: This festival is celebrated on the first day of the Kartik month and is also known as the ‘Festival of Boats’. It marks the beginning of the maritime trade season and is celebrated by worshipping boats and setting them afloat in rivers and ponds.
• Chhada Khai: This festival is celebrated on the 11th day of the Kartik month and is dedicated to the goddess Manasa. It is believed that on this day, the goddess blesses her devotees with good health and prosperity.
• Kartik Brata: This is a month-long fasting period that begins on the first day of the Kartik month and ends on the full moon day. Devotees observe strict dietary restrictions and perform puja to Lord Vishnu to seek his blessings.

Question & Answer

Q: Why is Kartik Purnima important in the Odia calendar?

A: Kartik Purnima is an important festival in the Odia calendar because it is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu took the form of Matsya, the fish, and rescued the Vedas from the demon Hayagriva. It is also a day to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and to take a dip in holy rivers.

Q: What is Boita Bandana?

A: Boita Bandana is a festival that is celebrated on the first day of the Kartik month in the Odia calendar. It marks the beginning of the maritime trade season and is celebrated by worshipping boats and setting them afloat in rivers and ponds.

Conclusion

The Odia calendar is a fascinating aspect of the state’s culture and heritage. It is filled with festivals and events that are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. If you are planning to visit Odisha in November 2023, be sure to take part in these festivals and events to get a taste of the state’s rich culture and traditions.