Kartika Purnima Celebrations in Odisha

Kartika Purnima festival is a saint in Orissa, celebrated in the month of Kartik. This is a practice among Oriya to abandon non-vegetarian like fish, meat and eggs for the month of Kartik.

But those who are unable to refrain from non-vegetarian food during the month, has the option to abandon for five days from Panchuka.There is a proverb that says that even in Oriya crane bird hunting fish not touch the fish during these five days. Kartika Purnima Festival in Orissa marks the culmination of all the religious festivals celebrated in the month of Karthik, which is considered the most auspicious month for 12 months in a calendar year, on full moon day in November - December.

Kartika Purnima is important to the ancient history of Orissa. This recalls the maritime glory of the state. In ancient times the "Sadhabas" (Sea traders) used to sail to distant islands like Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Ceylon, etc., to trade for big boats ("Boita"). Women have been giving the community a warm send that same day. The days are gone, but the memory lives on. Now people float small boats made of cork and colored paper or bark of the banyan tree, while recalling the past glory. This is called "Boita Bandana".

Odisha Travel Guide

Old Kalinga of the famous Emperor Ashoka Maurya, Orissa Maritime has a fascinating and turbulent history represented by the Sun Temple of Konark and the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri revered. Home to sixty-two tribes, the state also has many wildlife sanctuaries with their inhabitants, the white tiger, elegant. The state of Odissi dance, weaving and exquisite craftsmanship to give a unique identity and favorable.

Orissa boasts of a rich heritage and vibrant naturally caused by a long history of various rulers of different cultural and artistic inclinations. Confluence of racial streams have also further enriched the arts, crafts and culture of Orissa, in no uncertain terms. Orissa is best known for his work in brass, jewelry, art clay and applications work in addition to its unique handicrafts.

Besides the celebration of important festivals like Dusshera, Durga Puja, Independence Day and Holi, Orissa also has its share of festivals that are celebrated with parties and vivacity. The most important festival in Puri Rath Yatra is, Chandan Yatra and Devasnana Purnima. While Puri Beach Festival is a festival of amateur fun, Konark dance festival marks a tribute to the magnificent Sun Temple at Konark