The ancient festival known as ‘Sahi Jata’ transforms the city of Puri into a vibrant stage of devotion, drama, and martial display. Considered perhaps the world’s oldest open-air festival, Sahi Jata enacts various episodes of the Ramayana in different sahis, or local byways.



It is a fascinating blend of spiritual tradition, folk theatre, and martial arts performances, making it a unique cultural event that bridges Odisha’s heritage with contemporary performing arts.

Puri, according to legend, celebrates 13 festivals in 12 months meaning that the city is almost always alive with festivities. Among these, Sahi Jata holds a special place due to its antiquity and grandeur.

Inception and observation

Dating back to the 12th century, Sahi Jata begins one day before Ram Navami, the birthday of Lord Ramachandra, observed on Chaitra Shukla Navami Tithi (the ninth day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra, typically in March–April). The festival continues for several days, culminating on Baishakh Dwitiya Tithi.