Key Highlights
- President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi greeted people on Raja festival.
- The festival celebrates womanhood and Mother Earth, with all agricultural activities halted for three days.
- Leaders emphasized environmental protection and harmony with nature.
President Murmu's Message
President Droupadi Murmu, who hails from Odisha, extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of Raja. In a social media post, she said, "On the occasion of this mass festival 'Raja', I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of the country, especially the people of Odisha. This festival of the monsoon season is celebrated to honour the earth, the mother, and the clouds." She further noted that the festival reminds people of the importance of living in harmony with nature. "I hope that this special essence of the Raja festival will inspire us to dedicate ourselves to nation-building. On this Raja occasion, I wish for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the people of the state as well as the country," the President added.
Governor and Chief Minister's Greetings
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati described Raja as "the great festival of Odisha's culture, nature, progress, and tradition." He highlighted that the message of environmental protection is embedded in the festival, and it strengthens brotherhood, friendship, and goodwill. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi called the festival a unique confluence of Odia identity's living tradition, soil, and maternal energy. He said, "The culture that acknowledges the necessity of rest for future creation its successors, grounded in this humane and scientific philosophy have also accorded the highest priority to the dignity." Majhi also mentioned that in their governance system, importance is given to maternal energy, and additional leave is provided for working women. He concluded, "May our journey of development become even more dynamic... Let us, once again, seek the blessings of Mother Bhumidevi and reaffirm our firm resolve to build a prosperous, proud, empowered, and developed Odisha."
Opposition Leader's Wishes
Leader of Opposition in Odisha Assembly and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also extended greetings, stating, "This unique culture and tradition are a symbol of our respect for nature. May this occasion of joy and celebration fill everyone's life with happiness and prosperity."
About Raja Festival
Raja is a three-day agrarian festival celebrated in Odisha, during which all agricultural activities are halted as it is believed that Mother Earth takes rest. The festival honors womanhood and the earth, and is marked by various cultural traditions. It typically falls in mid-June, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Raja festival?
Raja is an agrarian festival celebrated in Odisha, honoring womanhood and Mother Earth. It marks the monsoon season and involves a three-day break from agricultural work.
Who extended greetings on Raja festival?
President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and BJD president Naveen Patnaik extended greetings.
What is the significance of Raja festival?
The festival celebrates the earth, mother, and clouds, emphasizing environmental protection, brotherhood, and respect for nature. It also highlights the dignity of women.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com