Report by S. Sudha; Sambalpur: Families in western Odisha welcoming their loved ones on the occasion of Shital Sasthi. This part of the state which is known for their traditions and culture is celebrating the festival of Shiva & Parbati marriage which is known as Shitala Sasthi.

Not only the Sambalpur City, but also the western Odisha seems to be too busy in celebration. Last night load shiva tied knot with Parvati. The barati also made a late night musical enjoyment during on the occasion of the SHIVA-PARBATI VIVAH.

Soumesh Sharma, a member of the barat says that “We Hindu treat our god as one among us, hence we celebrate the marriage of god as it happens with us. We don’t miss any ritual in the marriage of our God.”

On the occasion of Shitala Sasthi, there has been a huge Palishree Mela at the Gangadhar Mehera College ground in Sambalpur. People from different parts of the western region of the state are coming Sambalpur on this occasion. Mela seems to be overcrowded since the inaugural day. The handicrafts by the western Odisha artisans have been displayed at the Mela along with tasty food stalls. More than hundred stalls have been installed in the Mela with Nearly 100 shops are there displaying different products.

Another attraction of the celebration is the western Odisha music and songs and different folk forms in the cultural programme. Kids in Sambalpuri attire stealing everyone’s attention with the musical steps of rural Sambalpuri music.