Sailing into Tradition: The Boita Bandana Ritual in Odisha

Odisha uses the customary Boita Bandana ceremony to commemorate Kartik Purnima

Odisha: The state of Odisha came alive with exuberant festivities for Kartik Purnima, a holiday with enormous cultural and religious significance for its citizens. This year’s events featured the age-old custom of Boita Bandana, which honors the region’s marine heritage. On this auspicious day, families gathered on the banks of rivers and bodies of water to celebrate the spirit of their ancestors, who were formerly accomplished sailors. The Boita Bandana rite involves the symbolic floating of little boats constructed of banana peels, paper, and other environmentally friendly materials, decorated with flowers and other donations. 

Participants also repeat prayers, wishing for a happy future and safe travel for their loved ones. The festivities began early in the morning, with devotees donning traditional garb and lugging their handcrafted boats to the water’s edge. The sight of colorful boats flowing across the glistening waterways, along with the aroma of incense and flowers, produced a magnificent environment brimming with joy and devotion.Local community leaders and cultural enthusiasts emphasized the importance of preserving this traditional ritual, which honors seafaring ancestors while also encouraging environmental awareness through the use of biodegradable materials.”Kartik Purnima is a day for reflection and gratitude.

The banks of rivers and ponds throughout Odisha came alive on Friday as lakhs of devotees gathered to celebrate Kartik Purnima, which commemorates the medieval Boita Bandana rite. With cries of the traditional phrase “Aa ka ma bhayi, pana gua khai,” people came to rivers and bodies of water to sail small boats in honor of Odisha’s nautical history.

At Bindusagar in Bhubaneswar’s Old Town, devotees floated little boats fashioned of banana leaf sheaths, paper, leaves, and thermocouple, ornamented with lanterns, flowers, and incense sticks to represent good fortune. The rite is firmly ingrained in Odisha’s cultural legacy and commemorates the daring sea voyages of Kalinga’s ancient traders, who went to far-flung places like Bali and Java. Every year, the event brings people together to remember Odisha’s past.

Local community leaders and cultural advocates have underscored the significance of preserving this esteemed tradition, which honors seafaring ancestors while promoting environmental awareness through the use of biodegradable materials. “Kartik Purnima is a day of remembrance and gratitude. It serves as a reminder of our roots and the necessity of sustainability in our celebrations,” stated Priya Das, a local cultural activist. In addition to the Boita Bandana ritual, a variety of cultural programs were organized throughout the state, showcasing Odia music, dance, and folk art. Many families also prepared traditional delicacies, including pitha (rice cakes) to share with friends and neighbors, fostering community and togetherness. As the sun set on this beautiful day, the waters of Odisha glowed with the reflections of countless floating boats, symbolizing hope, unity, and the enduring legacy of its maritime history. The celebrations of Kartik Purnima not only strengthen community bonds but also serve as a poignant reminder of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, echoing through generations.