Odisha, known for its vibrant cultural landscape, celebrates a multitude of festivals throughout the year, and Nuakhai is one that holds significant importance, particularly in Western Odisha. Nuakhai, a Sambalpuri festival, is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the region, which is home to a large tribal population. Agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy, and this is reflected in the essence of Nuakhai. The name itself, derived from the words 'Nua' (new) and 'Khai' (eating), symbolises the consumption of the season’s first harvest.
Celebrating New Harvest and Unity
Nuakhai is not just a celebration of the harvest but also a time to strengthen familial bonds. People come together as families to partake in the first rice of the season, offered to the deities before being shared with loved ones. Nuakhai Juhar, the tradition of exchanging gifts and seeking blessings from elders, further cements the sense of unity and fraternity. The festival also marks a time to leave behind past conflicts, symbolising fresh beginnings and harmonious relationships.
In the evening, families and communities gather to seek blessings, share greetings, and enjoy traditional folk performances, including songs, dances, and dramas that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Western Odisha.
Rooted in Tradition
The origins of Nuakhai can be traced back to the Vedic period when the rishis discussed the Panchayajna, a set of rituals aimed at preserving social harmony and nature’s bounty. One of these, the Pralambana Yajna, was particularly significant as it marked the offering of new crops to the goddess. Over time, this practice evolved into Nuakhai, which has been celebrated since the 12th century.
Historically, Nuakhai was started by Chauvan Raja Ramai Deo of Patnagarh, now located in Bolangir district. The king recognised the pivotal role of agriculture in the state’s economic prosperity and encouraged the shift from hunting and gathering to an agrarian lifestyle. This transition paved the way for Nuakhai to become a central festival in Western Odisha’s cultural calendar. Nuakhai serves as a reminder to the younger generation about the importance of agriculture and the role of farmers in the nation’s progress. It fosters a deeper understanding of the efforts and sacrifices made by those who toil in the fields, cultivating the crops that sustain the population.
Nuakhai Rituals: A Structured Celebration
The festival begins two weeks prior to the actual day of celebration and involves nine distinct rituals. These rituals, steeped in tradition, are followed meticulously by the locals:
Beheren: An official announcement of the festival.
Lagna Dekha: The fixing of the exact date for consuming the new rice.
Daka Haka: Invitations are extended to loved ones to join in the celebrations.
Sapha Sutura and Lipa-Puchha: Focus on cleanliness and preparation for the festival.
Kina Bika: The purchase and sale of harvested rice.
Nua Dhan Khuja: The search for new crops.
Bali Paka: Offering of prasad (holy food) to the deity.
Nuakhai: The main event where new rice is consumed after being offered to the deity, followed by communal singing and dancing.
Juhar Bhet: A ritual of seeking blessings from elders and exchanging gifts.
Nuakhai’s significance extends beyond the agricultural calendar—it is a festival that promotes unity, strengthens family ties, and reminds the community of their cultural heritage. Celebrated with great fervour, it continues to inspire the generations of Western Odisha and beyond.
Prameya English interacted with some of the Western Odisha people on how they celebrate Nuakhai:
Satarupa Samantaray, Saintala, Bolangir District
"Nuakhai is a time of great joy for my family. We begin preparations weeks in advance, cleaning our home and getting ready to offer the new harvest to the goddess. After the rituals, we sit together to enjoy the first rice of the season, wearing new clothes and exchanging Juhar with our elders. It’s a celebration of togetherness."
Sunita Babu, Sambalpur
"For us, Nuakhai is all about honouring our agricultural roots. We start the day by offering the new crop to the deity, followed by sharing meals with our family and neighbours. In the evening, we gather for traditional folk songs and dances, celebrating our Sambalpuri heritage with pride."
