Bhubaneswar, Dec 11: Christmas is celebrated across Odisha with a blend of traditional Odia culture and the global festivities of the holiday season. The Christian community in Odisha celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm, especially in towns like Cuttack, Berhampur, and Bhubaneswar.
Here are some unique Christmas traditions practiced in Odisha:
Midnight mass with Odia touch: People attend midnight mass in churches, where the hymns are often sung in Odia. The service includes a mix of traditional Christmas songs and prayers in Odia, creating a unique local flavor to the otherwise universal Christian traditions. The church decor includes vibrant lighting and traditional symbols like stars and angels.
Christmas feast with Odia cuisine: The Christmas feast is an important part of the celebration. While dishes like cake and roast chicken are common, Odia Christians also include local specialties such as Macha Tarkari (fish curry), Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice), and Chhena Poda (a popular sweet made from cottage cheese) in their meals. Families prepare elaborate meals and share them with relatives and neighbors.
Star procession: A unique tradition in some parts of Odisha, especially in rural areas, is the "Star Procession." On Christmas Eve, children and youth walk through the streets carrying handmade stars and singing Christmas carols. The stars symbolize the Star of Bethlehem and are often crafted from bamboo and paper, and decorated with bright colors and lights. This is a joyful way of spreading Christmas cheer in the community.
Decorating with mango leaves & coconut: Unlike other regions where Christmas trees are the center of decoration, many families in Odisha decorate their homes with mango leaves and coconuts. These are considered symbols of prosperity and auspiciousness in Odia culture, and their use during Christmas brings a traditional Odia touch to the celebration.
Christmas markets & fairs: In cities like Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Christmas markets and fairs are held during the festive season. These markets sell a variety of goods, including homemade cakes, decorations, and clothes. What makes them unique is the mix of local handicrafts, Odia sweets, and Christmas decorations, offering a blend of both traditional Odia and Christian elements.
Community celebration: In several Christian communities in Odisha, the celebration goes beyond just family gatherings. People from different Christian denominations come together for community feasts, cultural programs, and games. These gatherings often include dances, plays, and folk songs, blending local culture with the spirit of Christmas.
