Sambalpur: The famous ‘Sitala Sasthi’ Yatra, observed to symbolize the divine wedding ceremony of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, has started in Sambalpur.
The Sitala Sasthi rituals started with ‘Patra Pendi’ on May 30 and ‘Deva Nimantran’ (invitation to Gods) to Balunkeswar Baba on Tuesday.
Notably, ‘Deva Nimantran’ is a ritual in which invitations are sent to gods and goddess in different temples before the wedding.
According to tradition, after getting permission from Lord Nrusingha, the card distribution ceremony gets underway by sending out coconut, ‘Paita’ (sacred thread), sweets and betel nut.
The ritualistic invitations to Loknath Baba and Jageswar Baba will be held on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Nandapada (the marriage venue) in Sambalpur district has been decorated beautifully with colorful lights for the occasion. The wedding between the divine couple couple will be held on June 7 .
The homecoming procession of the divine couple to the temple will begin on the night of June 8 and culminate on June 9.
According to sources, Sarat Chandra Mishra of Nandapada has been selected as the father of Balunkeswar Baba this year. Likewise, Sanjay Meher and his wife Kaushalya of Meher Gali here have been selected by the Nandapada Sital Sasthi Jatra Committee to play the role of parents of Goddess Parvati.
Notably, Sitala Sasthi is celebrated with immense fervor and gaiety all over Odisha, especially in Sambalpur district.
The celebrations are witnessed by devotees from the across the state as well as from the neighboring states. Folk music and dance are the main attractions of this Yatra.
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