Sitala Sashthi Celebrations Begin, Patrapendi Festival to Highlight Evening Rituals
Shitala Sashthi Yatra Begins Today; Patrapendi Ritual Scheduled for Evening: The Shitala Sashthi Yatra begins today, with the Patrapendi festival scheduled for this evening. The ritual is also known as the Kanyakhoja festival, dedicated to Lord Mahadev.
As per tradition, the seven sages will set out in the evening to the homes of the bride’s family to arrange the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This marks the main highlight of the Shitala Sashthi Yatra, beginning from the Patarpendi ceremony of Balunkeshar Baba in Nandapada.
It is believed that the family of Balunkeshar Baba, who goes in search of a bride, will receive the address of Goddess Parvati, after which the Patarpendi ritual will take place, and the marriage arrangements will begin.
According to the schedule, at around 7:30 pm, Barpita Ram Prasad Mishra, along with the seven sages and Pada Murabis, will proceed to Bambarad in search of the bride for Balunkeshar Baba.
The groom, seated in a decorated chariot, will depart from the Balukeshwar Temple in Nandapada. The procession will include traditional items such as garlands, bells, flowers, flags, umbrellas, and banners, along with conch shell sounds.
After reaching the bride’s side, a traditional dialogue will take place between both parties. Following this conversation, the marriage of Shiva and Parvati will be formally fixed according to ritual customs.
ALSO READ: How ₹33 a Day Can Grow into ₹19 Lakh
