Nuakhai 2022: Nabanna offered to Maa Samaleswari
Nuakhai 2022: Nabanna offered to Maa Samaleswari
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Nuapada: As 'Navanna' (new rice) was served to the deity of Maa Samaleswari temple in Sambalpur city on Thursday according to the 'lagna' (auspicious period), festive fervour descended throughout Western Odisha in honour of 'Nuakhai.'
The temple's administration committee made significant preparations for "Nuakhai," which is commemorated with devotee involvement for the first time in two years. Given the anticipated high level of attendance on the day, the preparations have been ongoing for more than two weeks. Due to the COVID pandemic, the widespread celebration was outlawed throughout the previous two years.
The entire temple complex was cleansed in accordance with the rites, and then it was purified using holy water. Additionally, it was sanitised as a preventative measure against COVID contamination. After receiving a holy bath, the deity was dressed in fresh, vibrant clothing.
After completing the ceremonies, "Navanna" was presented to Maa Samaleswari at the proper time while Shakti mantras were chanted, cymbals and drums were beaten, and conch shells were blown.
Earlier, between 10.56 am and 11.10 am, Brahmanmandap Pandit Mahasbha of the temple calculated the time and days from the Odia almanack to finalise the "lagna." At 11:00 am, the "Navanna" was shown. Following the offering, the devotees' jubilant applause filled the entire campus.
Thousands of worshippers arrived at the temple early in the morning bearing "Navanna" to gift to Maa Samaleswari, the locality's patron goddess. They transported the offering, which was made up of freshly grown rice, fruits, vegetables, sweets, incense sticks, and other puja supplies. On this occasion, local specialties like "Mug Bara," "Mug Manda," "Chaula Manda," "Kakara Pitha," and "Kheer" are also served.
Numerous cultural and community events have been planned for the evening to honour the occasion.
Although "Nuakhai" is primarily an agricultural festival that is observed with an offering made from a fresh crop as a duty to Mother Earth, it has recently taken on the form of a large-scale celebration.
