The Utkal Sanskrutika Samaj, a socio-cultural organisation in the city, celebrated Raja Parba, a traditional festival of Odisha, with gaiety and fervour at its premises in Dasapalla Hills on Sunday (June 14, 2026).

The three-day festival, which coincides with the onset of the monsoon, is observed as a celebration of womanhood and fertility. Deeply rooted in agrarian traditions, the festival is based on the belief that Mother Earth undergoes her menstrual cycle during this period. As a mark of respect, all farming and agricultural activities remain suspended for three days to allow the Earth to rest and rejuvenate.

The celebrations at the Samaj were marked by a vibrant atmosphere as members gathered to honour their cultural heritage. A highlight of the event was a pitha-making competition, where women showcased their culinary skills by preparing traditional Odia delicacies such as manda and poda pitha.

The festivities also featured a range of cultural programmes, including traditional songs and dances. Girls and young women, dressed in new traditional attire and adorned with natural cosmetics, participated in the traditional Raja Doli (swing) sessions, which are a quintessential part of the festival.

The distribution of sweet paan added to the community spirit, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie among the members.

The programme was organised by the Samaj’s cultural secretary Seena Mohanty and inaugurated by president J.K. Nayak. General secretary Satyabrata Dwivedi coordinated the event, ensuring a seamless experience for the attendees.

The celebration serves as a vital platform for the Odia-speaking community in Visakhapatnam to connect with their roots and pass on indigenous traditions, which underscore the importance of nature, sustainability, and the empowerment of women, to the younger generation.