The three- day-long Sital Sasthi Yatra commenced with the divine marriage of lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The divine wedding was solemnised here on Sunday night according to the Vedic rituals.
The rituals performed during the festival resemble the ones that are followed in marriage of real life couples. On the auspicious occasion, two couples are chosen to play the role of parents of lord Shiv and Goddess Parvati.
This year Bhikari Panda and his wife Mohini Panda of Patabhadi acted as the in- laws of Goddess Parbati while Satyram Panda and Preetimayee Panda of Ghodaghat Para played the role of in- laws of Chandrashekhar Baba.
The groom was taken to the bride’s place in a grand procession. People were kept awake throughout the night to witness the celestial marriage. The bride’s father or the Kanyapita gave dowry, comprising jewelleries and furniture to the groom’s family. Members of Barat were offered food. The festival wears a carnival-like look. It will end on Tuesday afternoon.
Over the years, the festival has grown bigger. It is now being celebrated at various temples of the district.
The local markets remained crowded.