Cuttack, April 2: The Kaibarta community of Bhodhapur village in Cuttack district is once again celebrating the traditional 'Ghoda Nacha' during the Chaitra Purnima festival, an age-old cultural event that continues to be observed with great reverence, despite the increasing influence of modernity.
The 'Ghoda Nacha' festival is one of the most significant celebrations for the Kaibarta community, marking the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Purnima. Villagers gather in large numbers, dressed in new clothes, to participate in the event, paying tribute to their deities and ancestors.
A key feature of the festival is the creation of a wooden horse head idol, which is carefully crafted by local artisans. The idol is then worshipped with traditional rituals, and following the prayers, it is affixed to a wooden horse body. The idol is taken out in a vibrant procession through the village, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional drums, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.
The celebrations last for three days, during which homes are decorated with 'pitha' (traditional sweets) and 'panam' (a sweet drink), symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The village remains full of festive cheer as the community comes together to preserve this cultural heritage.
Despite the pressures of modernity, the Kaibarta community has managed to keep this tradition alive, ensuring that the spirit of Chaitra Purnima and the significance of 'Ghoda Nacha' remain intact, fostering a sense of unity and cultural pride.
