Bhubaneswar, May 16: Savitri Brata, one of Odisha’s most sacred and widely celebrated festivals, is being observed across the state with great devotion and traditional fervour. The festival symbolises chastity, dedication and marital love in Odia Hindu Sanatan culture. Married women observe the fast praying for the long life, good health and prosperity of their husbands and families.

As per the Hindu lunar calendar, Savitri Brata is observed on the Amavasya of Krishna Paksha in the month of Jyeshtha, also known as Savitri Amavasya. The festival is deeply associated with the legendary tale of Mahasati Savitri and Satyavan from the Mahabharata.

Since early morning, a festive atmosphere has prevailed in cities and villages across Odisha. Married women took holy baths at dawn and dressed in traditional red and yellow sarees. Wearing new conch bangles, applying sindoor on their foreheads and alta on their feet, women were seen in complete traditional attire while performing the rituals.

Observing a strict fast throughout the day, devotees offered seasonal fruits and prayers to Goddess Savitri seeking the well-being and longevity of their husbands and the happiness of their families.