Celebrating Pana Sankranti: The Traditional New Year of Odisha
Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Vishuba Sankranti, is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. Marking the traditional Odia New Year, this festival is steeped in cultural and religious traditions, symbolizing a time of renewal and prosperity. Historical Significance Pana Sankranti falls on the first day of the Odia calendar month of Baisakha, typically around mid-April. It coincides with the solar transit into the Mesha (Aries) Rashi, making it astrologically significant as well. The festival’s name, “Pana,” is derived from the traditional drink made from various ingredients like jaggery, water, and fruits, symbolizing the onset of the summer season and the need to stay hydrated. Historically, Pana Sankranti has been celebrated for centuries, with references found in ancient scriptures and texts. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu, in his incarnation as Varaha (the boar), rescued the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha. This act