Cuttack: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) is set to organize a grand three-day Raja Mahotsav at the lower Bali Jatra Ground from June 14 to 16, blending Odisha’s rich cultural traditions with women-centric awareness programmes and community celebrations.
The festival aims to transform the traditional Raja festivities into a city-wide celebration, bringing together families, students, women, and cultural enthusiasts under one platform. From cultural performances and traditional delicacies to health awareness campaigns and felicitation ceremonies, the event promises a unique mix of entertainment, heritage and social responsibility.
Free Raja Pana and Poda Pitha for Visitors
One of the major attractions of the festival will be dedicated counters serving free Raja Pana and Poda Pitha, two iconic delicacies associated with the Raja festival in Odisha.
Visitors will also get the opportunity to enjoy a variety of cultural programmes, folk performances, music and dance events scheduled across all three evenings of the festival.
The civic body has also planned to honour distinguished women achievers from various fields for their contributions to society.
Celebration for Every Generation
CMC Mayor Subhas Chandra Singh said the Raja Mahotsav has been envisioned as a community festival that celebrates Odisha’s traditions while strengthening social bonds among citizens.
According to him, Raja is a festival that transcends generations and holds a special place in Odia culture. The event aims to encourage participation from mothers, daughters, students, teachers and families, creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can celebrate together.
The Mayor emphasized that the festival will not only showcase cultural heritage but also recognize women who have excelled in different professions and social sectors.
Special Focus on Women’s Health and Menstrual Awareness
Apart from cultural celebrations, the CMC has incorporated a strong social message into the festival by focusing on women’s health and menstrual hygiene awareness.
CMC Commissioner Kirandeep Kaur Sahota said a series of workshops, discussions and awareness sessions will be organized to encourage open conversations about menstruation and hygiene practices.
She noted that issues related to menstrual health often remain confined within households and are rarely discussed publicly. Since Raja is traditionally associated with womanhood and femininity, the festival offers an appropriate platform to spread awareness and break social taboos.
Gift Coupons for Girls from Slum Communities
As part of its inclusive approach, the civic body will distribute gift coupons to girls living in nearly 200 slum settlements across Cuttack through local slum committees.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring that underprivileged girls can also participate in the festive celebrations and feel included in the community event.
Awareness Drive on Sanitary Waste Disposal
The Raja Mahotsav will also serve as a platform to promote responsible waste management practices.
CMC plans to educate women about the proper disposal of sanitary waste and encourage the use of special red disposal boxes installed on municipal waste collection vehicles. The initiative is expected to improve awareness regarding hygiene and environmental safety.
Blending Tradition with Social Responsibility
Officials said the festival has been designed to go beyond conventional celebrations by integrating social awareness campaigns with cultural traditions. The objective is to create a meaningful public event that celebrates Odisha’s heritage while addressing issues that directly impact women and communities.
With free food stalls, cultural programmes, health awareness sessions, recognition of women achievers and outreach activities for marginalized communities, the inaugural Raja Mahotsav is expected to attract large crowds from across Cuttack.
The event is likely to add a new dimension to Raja celebrations in the city and could become a major annual cultural attraction in the years ahead.
