Samba Dashami: A Festival Dedicated To Sun
The rich cultural heritage and tradition of Odisha are reflected in its festivals. Be it for changing seasons, agricultural practices or folk deities, there are several festivals that are unique to the state. Samba Dashami is one such festival which is celebrated with religious fervour, particularly in the eastern part of Odisha. It is observed on the 10th day of Shukla Paksha of Pausha month as per the traditional Odia calendar. My City Links puts together some of the interesting facts associated with this unique festival.
Mythological Relevance
According to the legend, Lord Krishna cursed his son Samba following which he was afflicted with leprosy. Samba was cured after worshipping the Sun God for twelve years near Konark. Hence on this auspicious day, mothers in Odia households offer prayers to the Sun God and observe special rituals for well-being and long life of their children.
Rituals in three phases
The rituals of Samba Dashami are performed in three stages.
Early Morning- Womenfolk wakes up before sunrise and prepare traditional dishes like Khichdi, Poori, Ghadghadia Tarkari. These food items are then offered to the Sun God when the dawn breaks.
Traditional Odia cuisines are an important part of this festival. Various dishes like Manda Pitha, Poda Pitha, Biri Ladoo, Makar Chaula, Chhena Guda, Dhanu Muaan, Chaula Khiri, Rasagola, Chenna Gaja and Sweet Curd are prepared by women and each item is offered to the Sun God in the name of each family members, especially children.
Noon- When the sun is overhead, womenfolk gather near the ‘Chaura’ (a small temple-like structure with Tulsi plant at the top) with a bowl containing turmeric water and betel leaves. All the cooked food is served and the women view Sun God’s reflection in the turmeric water bowl. They also read ‘Samba Dashami Brata Katha’ (the tale that narrates the mythological relevance and significance of the festival) and pray for the well-being of family members.
Evening- The evening ritual begins with worshipping Yama, the Hindu God of Death. It is called ‘Mahakala Puja’ where Budha Chakuli is offered to Lord Yama.
Importance of Konark
On the occasion, people also gather at Chandrabhaga beach to take a holy dip and throng the Konark temple to offer prayers to the Sun God.
Author: Debamitra mishra
A journalist by profession and a fanatic of liberal arts, Debamitra is a reporter and carves her niche in human interest stories. An artist in solitude and wannabe writer.
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