Maha Bishuba Sankranti: Date, timing, history, significance and celebration of Odia New Year

Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Bishuba Sankranti, is the traditional New Year festival celebrated by the people in Odisha. This auspicious occasion falls on Monday, April 14.

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Pana Sankranti has deep roots in Odisha's agrarian culture, marking the end of the old agricultural year and the beginning of a new cycle. The festival is associated with Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Puri's Jagannath Temple, who, according to legend, created the 'pana' drink to alleviate the intense summer heat. This refreshing concoction, made from water, jaggery, yogurt, and spices, has become a central element of the celebrations. 

Significance:

Pana Sankranti signifies renewal and fresh beginnings. It aligns with the first day of the Hindu solar calendar, ushering in the new agricultural year. The festival emphasizes themes of rebirth and community unity. Devotees engage in various rituals, including cleaning homes, wearing new clothes, and offering prayers to Lord Jagannath. The act of sharing the 'pana' drink among friends, family, and neighbors fosters a sense of camaraderie and togetherness. 

Festivities of Pana Sankranti are rich and varied:

Culinary traditions: A highlight is the preparation of 'pana,' a sweet and refreshing drink made from the pulp of the wood apple, fruits, sugar or jaggery, and spices. This beverage is distributed among family members, friends, and neighbors as a symbol of sharing and unity. 

Rituals and worship: Devotees visit temples dedicated to deities such as Lord Hanuman, Shiva, and Surya. Special rituals, including fire-walking ceremonies and the hanging of 'Basundhara Theki' -a water-filled earthen pot over a basil plant, are observed. The continuous water drip onto the basil plant is considered auspicious. 

Cultural events: The day is marked by folk dances, music performances, and traditional art forms like Danda Nata and Jhama Nata. These cultural expressions showcase Odisha's rich heritage and are performed in various communities. 

New Odia calendar or Panjika: The release of the new Odia calendar is a significant aspect of the festival. The Panjika provides details about auspicious dates, timings, and predictions for the year, serving as a guide for religious and cultural events.