Pana Sankranti 2025: Odia New Year, Maha Vishuba Sankranti celebrated with Bela Pana

Bhubaneswar: Odisha ushered in the Odia New Year 2025 today with grandeur and deep-rooted spirituality, celebrating the twin festivals of Maha Bishuba Sankranti—more popularly known as Pana Sankranti—and Hanuman Jayanti. Homes, temples, and streets across the state were immersed in vibrant rituals, cultural pride, and traditional fervour, as the state marked a fresh beginning in its solar calendar.

Odia Panjika Launches New Beginnings

To officially mark the new year, the new edition of the Odia Panjika (almanac) was introduced at the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri, setting the tone for upcoming religious ceremonies and auspicious timings for the rest of the year. The occasion held special significance at Srimandir, as thousands of pilgrims flocked to witness the spiritual grandeur and participate in the celebrations.

The Essence of Pana Sankranti: Bela Pana

No celebration of Pana Sankranti is complete without the preparation of the traditional drink, Bela Pana. Made from the pulp of the wood apple (Bael fruit), this sweet, aromatic smoothie not only serves as a refreshing summer drink but is also considered an essential offering to the deities. Mixed with cheese, sugar, coconut scrappings, banana, and a touch of black pepper, this holy drink embodies both culinary richness and spiritual significance.

“Without Bela Pana, celebration of Pana Sankranti has no meaning. In this hot weather, it’s the best way to remain hydrated,” said Ranjan Mohapatra, a local resident. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants, the Bael fruit is widely recognized in Ayurveda for its medicinal benefits. Every part of the Bael tree—from fruit to leaf—is used in traditional medicine and religious offerings, especially to Lord Shiva.

Soaring Demand and Street-side Sales

With the rise in temperature and the religious demand for Bael, its price witnessed a sharp spike. Usually sold at Rs 20, the fruit is now retailing between Rs 40 and Rs 50 per unit. “We are selling Bela at Rs 40 to Rs 50 per unit due to high demand,” shared Ramesh Sahoo, a fruit seller in the Nayapali area of Bhubaneswar. Residents across the state were seen selling the fruit on the roadside, making quick sales during the festive period.

A Day of Devotion and Unity

Celebrated as Maha Vishuba Sankranti, this day signifies the Sun’s transition into Mesha Rashi (Aries)—an astronomical event that also reflects Odisha’s deep agricultural and seasonal awareness. Temples echoed with devotional chants, with special observances held at Lord Hanuman temples where sweets, fruits, and hymns were offered throughout the day.

In Puri, the convergence of both Pana Sankranti and Hanuman Jayanti drew record footfall, transforming the temple town into a spiritual hub.

National Leaders Extend Greetings

On this joyous occasion, President Droupadi Murmu, an Odia herself, extended warm greetings to the people of Odisha and Odias living worldwide. Taking to X, she shared:

“On the occasion of the holy Odia New Year, Pana Sankranti or Mahavishub Sankranti, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Odisha and to our Odia brothers and sisters living abroad. This joyful festival also inspires us to work dedicatedly for our country.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his best wishes:

“Best wishes on the Odia New Year! Best wishes on Maha Bishuba Pana Sankranti. May the coming year mark the fulfilment of all your dreams.”

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi too shared his greetings, marking a moment of unity and shared cultural identity for the Odia people.