Odisha (Orissa) Tribal Festivals

Tribal Festivals of Odisha (Orissa) - The festivals of the tribals constitute a integral part of their social life and relate to their strong beliefs in the power of supernatural elements and community togetherness. Their traditions can best be captured at these fairs and festivals. Most festivals are occasions that mark the change of season relating to harvest of crops and some are religious events commemorating a local deity. Some of the larger and popular celebrations include a week long Tribal Fair at Bhubaneswar (starts 26 January), the Chhow Festival at Baripada (April), the Folk Dance Festival (January) at Sambalpur, the Tribal Festival at Koraput (November).

Innumerable folk traditions and spirits are manifested by way of observing vratas and oshas (fasts) by Hindus in Odisha (Orissa). The observance is believed to resist the materialistic aspects of human life, augment belief in religion, bring welfare, prosperity and long life to the near and dear ones, recovery from ailments, beget a good match, and may be a bumper harvest. Most of these observations are marked by a spirit of sanctity, worship and painting walls and floors with rice paste.

In addition to the above mentioned festivals, the Puri Beach Festival in November 2008. The events range from exhibition of handloom, cultural programmes and food festival.