Today target the holy festival of Rakhi Purnima, a occasion when sisters across Odisha and the all nation affectionate tie colorful filament, known as Rakhis, around their brothers’ wrists. 
Odisha Rakhi Celebration: Devotion, Joy & Unique Traditions


This touching gesture embodies a sister’s deep affection and her heartfelt prayers for her brother’s safety and well-being. In return, brothers vow to provide lifelong protection and care for their sisters. Families celebrate this special bond by exchanging gifts, sharing meals, and expressing joy on this occasion. A simple thread becomes a powerful symbol of family love and security.
Across the wealthy and populous state of Odisha, families excited participate in the celebration of Raksha Bandhan, a love festival that honors the unique bond between brothers and sisters.
 The air was filled with festive energy and the pleasant aroma of homemade traditional sweets. Sisters lovingly tied colorful Rakhis around their brothers’ wrists, while brothers wholeheartedly vowed lifelong love and protection, reinforcing their bond.
This festival of affection and commitment spread joy across every corner of the state, from serene rural villages to bustling urban centers. 
Odisha Rakhi Celebration: Devotion, Joy & Unique Traditions


Homes welcomed families gathering to perform the simple yet profound Rakhi ceremony, sharing laughter, blessings, and delicious treats.

Sacred Rituals at Puri's Srimandir

The celebrations carried deep religious significance, especially at the revered Srimandir in Puri.
 Here, unique and elaborate preparations were made to ensure a beautiful and meaningful ritual. Devotees watched as the sacred act of tying Rakhis took place, with sister Devi Subhadra ceremonially binding them onto the deities Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra. The dedicated temple servants, known as Patara Bisoi, carefully prepared four special Rakhis and two garlands made from 'gua' (areca nuts) for this divine ritual.

Honouring Balabhadra on Gahma Purnima

Adding another layer of spiritual importance, Raksha Bandhan this year coincided with 'Gahma Purnima'.
 This auspicious day commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Balabhadra, the elder brother of Lord Jagannath, who is depicted holding a plough and pestle. Devotees across the state offered special prayers and reverence to him.

Unique Tradition: Honouring the Sacred Cow

Odisha also observes a distinctive and heartwarming tradition during Raksha Bandhan, reflecting the state’s deep cultural roots and profound respect for nature.
 People lovingly bathed cows, acknowledging their sacred status. They then adorned the cows’ horns with bright Rakhis and offered them special rice cakes, known as 'pithas', as a mark of deep respect and gratitude during the holy celebrations.

Leaders Extend Heartfelt Wishes

State leaders joined the people of Odisha in celebrating this special day.
 Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi shared warm greetings on social media, expressing: “Heartfelt greetings and best wishes to everyone on the occasion of the holy Raksha Bandhan and Rakhi Purnima.” 
Odisha Rakhi Celebration: Devotion, Joy & Unique Traditions


Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo also conveyed his wishes, highlighting the festival’s core values: “Warm wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
 May the sacred bond between brothers and sisters grow deeper with each passing year, strengthened by love, trust, and tradition. With the blessings of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, let this festival carry the message of peace, harmony, and shared responsibility.” He also encouraged supporting local artisans, urging people to choose Indian-made Rakhis and gifts to empower craftsmen and build a self-reliant nation.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida shared her good wishes through a video message, emphasizing the cultural importance of protecting sisters.
 She extended congratulations and wished happiness and prosperity to all mothers and sisters across Odisha.

A Festival of Universal Bonds

Raksha Bandhan is a cherished and widely celebrated festival throughout India.
 People from all walks of life, regardless of background, participate in its joyful rituals. Observed annually on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravana, it holds deep cultural and religious significance within traditions, standing as a powerful symbol of love, unwavering trust, and protective care.
While beautifully celebrating the unique relationship between siblings, Raksha Bandhan also conveys a broader, timeless message.
 It powerfully promotes the ideals of universal 
Odisha Rakhi Celebration: Devotion, Joy & Unique Traditions

brotherhood and sisterhood. The simple act of tying a Rakhi reminds everyone of the importance of nurturing positive qualities and maintaining purity in our thoughts, words, and actions. The festival underscores our shared responsibility towards each other, fostering a spirit of harmony and mutual respect that resonates far beyond the immediate family circle.

In Odisha, with its blend of heartfelt family traditions, profound temple rituals, unique cultural practices like cow veneration, and messages of unity from its leaders, Raksha Bandhan 2025 was a vibrant and deeply meaningful celebration of love, protection, and shared humanity.