The Odia calendar, also known as the Odia Panjika, is an essential part of the cultural and religious fabric of Odisha. It is not just a time-keeping tool but a repository of the region’s traditions, festivals, and rituals. With 2024 approaching, it is time to delve into the significant dates, events, and holidays that will shape the year for those who follow this traditional calendar.
Details About “Odia Calendar 2024”
The Odia Calendar 2024 is an almanac that details all the important dates, festivals, and holidays as per the Odia tradition. It is used extensively in Odisha and among Odia communities worldwide. The calendar follows the lunar cycle, marking various festivals and auspicious days crucial for religious ceremonies and social events.
Calendar
Below is a detailed tabular representation of the Odia Calendar 2024 highlighting all the important events and holidays:
| Date | Day | Event/Festival |
| January 14 | Sunday | Makar Sankranti |
| February 5 | Monday | Magha Purnima |
| March 8 | Friday | Maha Shivaratri |
| March 25 | Monday | Holi |
| April 14 | Sunday | Pana Sankranti (Odia New Year) |
| April 21 | Sunday | Akshaya Tritiya |
| May 1 | Wednesday | May Day |
| June 20 | Thursday | Raja Sankranti |
| July 6 | Saturday | Ratha Yatra |
| August 15 | Thursday | Independence Day |
| August 26 | Monday | Janmashtami |
| September 17 | Tuesday | Vishwakarma Puja |
| October 2 | Wednesday | Gandhi Jayanti |
| October 8 | Tuesday | Durga Ashtami |
| October 14 | Monday | Lakshmi Puja |
| October 28 | Monday | Diwali |
| November 12 | Tuesday | Kartika Purnima |
| December 25 | Wednesday | Christmas |
Specific Details about All Events/Holidays
Makar Sankranti
Celebrated on January 14, Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn. It is a harvest festival where people take holy dips in rivers and offer prayers.
Magha Purnima
Falling on February 5, Magha Purnima is a significant full moon day in the Hindu month of Magha. Devotees perform rituals and take sacred baths.
Maha Shivaratri
Observed on March 8, Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees fast and offer night-long prayers to seek blessings.
Holi
On March 25, Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with enthusiasm. It signifies the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.
Pana Sankranti (Odia New Year)
April 14 marks Pana Sankranti, the Odia New Year. It is celebrated with the preparation of a special drink called ‘Pana’ and various cultural activities.
Akshaya Tritiya
Observed on April 21, Akshaya Tritiya is an auspicious day for new beginnings and investments, especially in gold.
May Day
Celebrated on May 1, May Day is a global holiday honoring the contributions of laborers and the working class.
Raja Sankranti
On June 20, Raja Sankranti is celebrated, marking the onset of the monsoon. It is a festival dedicated to Mother Earth and womanhood.
Ratha Yatra
July 6 is the grand chariot festival of Lord Jagannath, known as Ratha Yatra. It attracts millions of devotees to Puri, Odisha.
Independence Day
August 15 is celebrated as India’s Independence Day, marking the end of British rule in 1947.
Janmashtami
Falling on August 26, Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna. Devotees fast and engage in night-long celebrations.
Vishwakarma Puja
On September 17, Vishwakarma Puja is observed by craftsmen and artisans who worship their tools and instruments.
Gandhi Jayanti
October 2 is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, honoring the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation.
Durga Ashtami
October 8 is Durga Ashtami, one of the most significant days during the Navratri festival, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Lakshmi Puja
On October 14, Lakshmi Puja is celebrated to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
Diwali
October 28 marks Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrated with the lighting of lamps, fireworks, and sweets.
Kartika Purnima
November 12 is Kartika Purnima, a day marked by religious rituals and the lighting of lamps in Odisha.
Christmas
December 25 is celebrated as Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ with joy and festivity.
The Odia Calendar 2024 is a treasure trove of cultural and religious events that reflect the vibrant traditions of Odisha. From major festivals like Ratha Yatra and Diwali to auspicious days like Pana Sankranti and Akshaya Tritiya, this calendar is indispensable for planning and celebrating the year ahead.
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FAQ
What is the significance of Pana Sankranti in the Odia calendar?
Pana Sankranti, also known as the Odia New Year, is celebrated on April 14. It marks the beginning of the New Year in Odisha and involves various cultural activities and rituals.
When is Ratha Yatra celebrated in 2024?
Ratha Yatra is celebrated on July 6, 2024. It is a major festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath in Puri, Odisha.
What are the key festivals in the Odia Calendar 2024?
Key festivals include Makar Sankranti, Maha Shivaratri, Holi, Pana Sankranti, Akshaya Tritiya, Raja Sankranti, Ratha Yatra, Durga Ashtami, Lakshmi Puja, Diwali, and Kartika Purnima.
How is Diwali celebrated in Odisha?
Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated on October 28, 2024. It involves lighting lamps, bursting fireworks, and sharing sweets among friends and family.
The Odia Calendar 2024 is a guide to the rich cultural and religious tapestry of Odisha, helping individuals keep track of important dates and festivals throughout the year.