Bhubaneswar: Odisha is gearing up for a grand royal union that blends deep cultural heritage with contemporary political influence. Kirti Deb, daughter of Ananga Bhaskar Deb of the erstwhile Puri royal family, is set to marry Aditya Pratap, son of Athagarh MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain, on March 5 in Bhubaneswar.
According to sources, pre-wedding rituals, including the Tilak ceremony and the Patmudi ceremony, have been completed. The families have also presented the first wedding invitations to the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri.
“Today was a truly special occasion as we celebrated the Patmudi ceremony of Princess Kumari Kriti Deb, daughter of Kumar Saheb, Puri Anang Bhaskar Deb, with Kumar Aditya Pratap, so
n of MLA Athgarh Shri Ranendra Pratap Swain. My warmest congratulations to both the families on this joyous union. Sending love and blessings to Kriti and Aditya as they step into a beautiful journey together,” Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo, who belongs to the former royal family of the princely state of Patna in Balangir, posted on Facebook on February 1.
The Puri royal family holds a revered position in Odisha’s cultural and religious landscape, closely associated with the sacred rituals and traditions of the 12th-century shrine in Puri. The Athagarh family, on the other hand, carries strong political influence.
Sources said that the wedding is being organised in Bhubaneswar because royal customs do not allow the ‘Kanyadana’ ritual to take place at the Gajapati Palace or Raja Nahar. The wedding is expected to feature elaborate decorations, traditional rituals, and attendance from dignitaries, political leaders, and members of Odisha’s royal families.
People are eagerly anticipating the event, which is expected to showcase the state’s rich cultural tapestry through grand royal festivities.