Bhubaneswar, Nov 30: The 'Jhoti Chita' holds divine importance on Manabasa Gurubar in Odisha. This traditional art form involves creating intricate and flamboyant designs with rice paste on the floor, especially at the doorstep and in the worship area of the house. The practice is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual beliefs.
Significance:
Prayer of Goddess Lakshmi:
The Jhoti Chita is believed to be a way of inviting and honoring Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Elaborate and artistic designs are thought to attract the goddess and create an auspicious atmosphere within the home.
Symbol of Purity:
The use of rice paste symbolizes purity and fertility. Rice is considered a sacred grain, and its application in the form of Jhoti Chita is seen as a purification ritual.
The elaborate patterns reflect the idea of purity extending beyond the physical space to a spiritual realm.
Warding off Evil:
The Jhoti Chita is thought to have protective properties, acting as a barrier against negative energies and evil forces.
The complexity of the designs is believed to confuse and ward off malevolent spirits, ensuring a harmonious and secure environment.
Cultural and Spiritual Heritage:
Jhoti Chita is a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations, and its practice is a way of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of Odisha.
It serves as a reminder of the connection between the earthly and the divine, emphasizing the importance of spirituality in daily life.
Ritualistic Expression:
The act of creating Jhoti Chita is considered a form of devotion and a ritualistic expression of faith.
The designs often incorporate symbols and patterns with specific spiritual meanings, contributing to a sacred ambiance during the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.
The Jhoti Chita on Manabasa Gurubar is not merely a decorative art form; it is a profound expression of spirituality, devotion, and a cultural emblem that enhances the divine atmosphere within the homes of the worshippers.
Also Read: First Manabasa Gurubar today: Know story behind Lakshmi Purana.
