Chitau Pitha Festival of Chitau Amabasya - Odisha

Chitau Pitha Festival of Chitau Amabasya - Odisha

Chitau Pitha is an important festival celebrated in the state of Odisha, particularly by the people residing in the western and southern regions of the state. It is held during Chitau Amabasya, which typically falls on the Amavasya (new moon night) of the Chaitra month in the Odia calendar, usually corresponding to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This festival marks a time for community gathering, spiritual reflection, and the honoring of ancestors.

Significance of Chitau Amabasya

The day of Chitau Amabasya is considered auspicious in Odisha, especially for honoring one's forefathers. The festival is associated with the belief that on this day, the souls of ancestors are believed to visit the earthly realm. As part of the customs, people perform rituals to honor and remember their ancestors, seeking their blessings for prosperity, peace, and health.

Chitau Pitha: The Sweet Tradition

The highlight of the Chitau Pitha festival is the preparation and consumption of a special type of traditional rice cake called Chitau Pitha. This delicacy is an essential part of the day’s offerings, made with a blend of rice flour, jaggery, and coconut. The pithas are typically shaped in various forms, including round, square, or even triangular, and are often steamed or fried.

The rice flour dough is mixed with jaggery, grated coconut, and sometimes a pinch of cardamom for flavor. These cakes are then cooked using traditional methods, either by steaming or frying them in oil. The sweets are often presented in a plate offering during family rituals or community prayers. They are shared with relatives, friends, and neighbors as a way of reinforcing bonds and celebrating the spirit of togetherness.

Rituals and Customs

The celebration of Chitau Pitha begins early in the morning. Devotees gather at their homes, or at the local temples, to perform Tarpan (ritual offering of water to the ancestors). The process involves offering prayers and food, including Chitau Pitha, to appease the spirits and to seek their blessings for the well-being of the family.

In rural areas, the festival is celebrated with a sense of community. Villagers come together to prepare the Pithas in large quantities, share them with everyone, and engage in folk dances and songs. This collective celebration helps strengthen the sense of community and cultural unity.

Other Aspects of the Celebration

Apart from preparing Chitau Pitha, the day is also marked by various social and cultural events. The festival is an opportunity for families to come together, share meals, and express gratitude for their ancestors. Temples dedicated to the deities of the region may host special prayers and rituals, where locals participate in large numbers.

In some parts of Odisha, the festival is also linked to the harvest cycle, symbolizing gratitude for the abundant crops. It is considered a time to express thanks for the blessings of the previous year and to pray for a bountiful year ahead.