Raja Parba also known as Mithuna or raja Sankranti), a festival of womanhood celebrated in Odisha, India. To celebrate the advent of monsoon, the joyous festival is arranged for five days by the villagers. Though celebrated all over the state it is more enthusiastically observed in all over Odisha but celebrated with much fervor across the coastal districts. The first day is called "Saja Baja", second day is called "Pahili Raja", third is "Raja Sankranti" and fourth is "Bhumi Dahana or Basi Raja". And fifth is “Basumati Snana”, in which the ladies bath the grinding stone as a symbol of Bhumi with turmeric paste and adore with flower, sindoor etc. All type of seasonal fruits like Mango, nourishing food especially Poda Pitha or Manda Pitha are offered.
Embracing the tradition with elegance, Kuwait Odisha Association (KOA) a socio-cultural body registered with Indian Embassy Kuwait since 1989, ushered in the vibrant “RAJA UTSAV”, on Friday, 20th June 2025 with great passion and cultural magnificence. Despite of being outside the state and country far away in Kuwait, the celebration beautifully recreated the essence of one of Odisha’s most beloved and feminine festivals.
It is a joyful ode to womanhood, and the cyclical rhythm of nature, heralding the onset of the agricultural season. Symbolizing rest, rejuvenation, and the blossoming spirit of women, the festival occupies a unique place in Odisha’s cultural arena.
Clad in traditional attire, the women folk of KOA prepared an exquisite array of festival delicacies with a delectable focus on an assortment of PITHAs – intricate sweets and savories that are quintessential to “RAJA” celebrations.
Throughout the colorful and cultural evening men, women and children were showcasing their talent with Songs, dance items etc.
Adding a playful charm to the evening were quiz program with prizes related to RAJA event and lively interactions in which both women, men and children participated with equal enthusiasm.
A beautifully coordinated musical chair play was conducted which stood as the centerpiece of the event, the air resonated with laughter, music and the warmth of community bonding.
The festivities culminated in a sumptuous Odia-style dinner with home prepared food named as “MUTTON KASA”, stealing the evening with aromatic delight and cultural pride.
The celebration not only brought together the Odia Samaj of Kuwait but also served as a vibrant reminder of Odisha’s rich traditions, lovingly preserved and passed down through generations.
The program was sponsored by Al Mulla Exchange, Kuwait and another sponsor from Film industry “Jerry's Journey International Production House” Finally, all the kids were given a set of Gifts courtesy by AL MULLA EXCHAGE while exiting from the event hall.