Chitalagi Amavasya,
Also known as Chitau Amavasya, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Sravana month, particularly significant in Odisha. It’s a day dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, where they are adorned with special gemstone ornaments called Chitas. The festival also holds agricultural significance, with farmers offering prayers for a good harvest and enjoying the traditional Chitau Pitha.
Here’s a more detailed look:
Celebration at Jagannath Temple:
On Chitalagi Amavasya, the deities in the Jagannath Temple, Puri, are decorated with Chitas, which are forehead ornaments crafted from precious gemstones and gold. Lord Jagannath receives a “Heera Chita” (diamond), Lord Balabhadra a “Neela Chita” (blue sapphire), and Devi Subhadra a “Manikya Chita” (ruby).
Agricultural Significance:
The festival is also an agricultural celebration, with farmers offering prayers for a bountiful harvest and seeking blessings for their crops. They perform rituals, bathe early, and offer flowers, milk, and the special Chitau Pitha to the fields.
Chitau Pitha:
A traditional rice pancake called Chitau Pitha is a central element of the festival. It is prepared with rice flour, coconut, jaggery, and sometimes lentils, and is offered to the deities and enjoyed by devotees.
Other Traditions:
Some regions also have unique traditions, such as drawing designs below the navel of children to ward off evil spirits and offering Chakuli Pitha to appease a witch.
Rituals:
The festival involves special rituals at the Jagannath Temple, including the adornment of the deities with Chitas, the performance of Mahasnana (holy bath), and the offering of various Bhogas (food offerings
Leave a Reply