Bhubaneswar, Nov 12: Prathamastami, a cherished festival of Odisha, brings with it an unmistakable sense of warmth, joy, and togetherness. Celebrated on the eighth day of the bright fortnight of the Margashira month, usually falling in November or December, this unique festival is dedicated to honoring the eldest child in every family.

In 2025, Prathamastami is being observed on November 12, filling Odia homes with the delightful aromas of traditional sweets and the joyous sounds of celebration.

For every Odia household, Prathamastami is a day wrapped in fond memories, where the air is infused with the fragrance of turmeric leaves, coconut fillings, and the unmistakable scent of Haladi Patra Pitha the signature delicacy of the day. The festival, while honoring the eldest child, is more than just a celebration of age; it’s a celebration of family, love, and the cherished bonds that hold a home together.

The air was thick with the aroma of turmeric-infused steam rising from the kitchen, where the women of the house would be busy preparing Haladi Patra Pitha. This sweet, turmeric-flavored rice flour cake, wrapped in turmeric leaves, is the heart of the Prathamastami feast. It’s a dish that carries with it the essence of tradition and is believed to bring blessings of health and longevity.

On this day, the eldest child is treated with special care and attention. It is a day when they are showered with love, pampered with gifts, and celebrated as the anchor of the family. As a child, I remember feeling like the center of my family's universe proud, honored, and deeply loved. The blessings from elders, the camaraderie of siblings, and the warmth of family made the day truly special.

While the culinary delights and festivities are at the forefront of the celebration, Prathamastami holds profound cultural and social significance in Odisha. It is a reflection of the timeless values of respect for elders, family unity, and the importance of nurturing the bonds that tie generations together. The day is a reminder of the role of the eldest child as a pillar of strength and support within the family structure, a figure that symbolizes responsibility, care, and leadership.

The rituals of Prathamastami also underscore Odisha’s deep-rooted connection to tradition. Families come together to honor their eldest child, seek blessings for their well-being, and pray for a life filled with prosperity and happiness.