Servitor family girls perform age-old Neta Puja in Odisha's Puri

Prameyanews English

Published By : Pradeep Subudhi | October 8, 2024 9:50 AM

 ‘Neta Pila,’ Neta Panchami in puri

Puri, Oct 8: The pilgrim city of Puri came alive on Monday with the age-old tradition of ‘Neta Pila,’ also known as Neta Panchami. This vibrant festival is celebrated by the young daughters of the sevayat (servitor) families of Srimandir, who don special costumes during the latter part of the month of Ashwin.

 

Neta Pila is believed to be a rite that not only seeks blessings for a good husband in the future but also prays for the well-being of their families. The tradition unfolds over 21 days, beginning from Bhadraba Purnima. During this time, the girls perform Bali Puja near the Tulsi plant at their homes, placing a betelnut and seven seashells in a small box to represent Lord Shiva.

 

Each morning, the young girls also visit the Markandeya Temple to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. They sing hymns and present offerings of fruits such as coconut, corn, banana, and watermelon. As part of the ritual, they observe a five-day fast, consuming only fruits during this period.

 

This beautiful celebration not only reflects the cultural heritage of Puri but also highlights the devotion and hopes of the young girls as they participate in this meaningful tradition.

 

Anshika Panda, Netapila-“Bali re Bali, Nakara Ali, Kali Aani Debi Saru Chakuli.” These words echo the joy of the Kumari girls from the Sevayat families as they celebrate the special festival of Netapila. This unique festival is observed by the Sevayat community associated with the SriMandir and has been a cherished tradition for many centuries.

 

Despite the passage of time and modern influences, the Netapila festival continues to be celebrated in accordance with old customs. Young girls in the Sevayat families are adorned in exquisite traditional attire and jewelry, symbolizing the importance of this festival.

 

The rituals take place at Markand Pushkarini, where the girls perform puja to seek the blessings of Haraparvati. For 21 days, they conduct sacrifices and rituals, culminating in a vibrant display of traditional dress and ornaments in the final four days. During this time, the girls also sing traditional baligeeta (sacred songs).

 

Shibani Pratihari, Netapila-The festival is celebrated on the fifth, sixth, and seventh days of the Ashwin month. The Sevayat girls offer a variety of fruits, water, and sweets as part of the puja, further deepening their connections with family and friends by visiting their homes in festive attire.

 

This occasion transforms the homes of the Sevayat families into vibrant centers of celebration, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural pride. The origins of this distinctive tradition continue to be a point of curiosity among the Sevayat community, showcasing their rich heritage and enduring customs.

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