Sambalpur: Sambalpur’s Sital Sasthi Festival Concludes Peacefully, Leaves Cultural Impact; 10,000 Artists Participate

Colorful Conclusion to the Festival

Sambalpur: This year’s Sital Sasthi Yatra concluded on a vibrant and peaceful note, leaving a strong cultural impression on everyone’s minds. Artists from different parts of the country participated in this spiritual and cultural gathering, showcasing their local folk music, dance, and art. From Assam’s Bihu to Goa’s traditional dance, the festival celebrated India’s rich diversity.

Notably, the popular local song “Sital Sasthi Nachuthibu Utki Utki” echoed across most procession routes. Young people danced enthusiastically to the beats of dhol and drums, especially during the chariot parades. Songs like “Culfie Rani Chocobar” and “Nua hero Dekhikari” were played on loudspeakers, entertaining the spectators throughout.

Fewer Participation by Transgender Performers

In past years, transgender artists were a common and symbolic part of the Sital Sasthi Yatra. Many believed that dancing during the divine parade of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati brought them spiritual liberation. Earlier, transgender people from Odisha and other parts of India came in large numbers, and events like the “Kinnar Fashion Show” were a regular feature.

However, this year saw a noticeable decline in their participation. For some unknown reasons, the fashion show wasn’t organized. Moreover, the number of transgender dancers, who usually performed joyfully to drumbeats, was also significantly lower.

A Platform for Cultural Exchange

This year, around 10,000 artists joined the festival. As always, Sital Sasthi served as a platform to revive and promote nearly forgotten folk arts and provide livelihood opportunities to rural artists. Through their performances, artists enabled a meaningful cultural exchange.

The processions included unique dance forms like the Aghori dance, which touched people’s hearts. Additionally, Baba Bateshwar Kirtan Samiti from Bhopal, Toneswar Singh Mahotsav Mandal from Goa, Kerala’s Tambola and Melam, Mumbai’s Lavani and Nadaswaram, and other jungle-style dances captivated the audience.

Devotees Unfazed by the Heat

Despite the scorching temperature of 39°C, devotees flocked to witness the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Many traveled long distances to seek their blessings and enjoy the cultural festivities. To provide relief, authorities arranged water sprinkling at various locations to cool down the crowd.

Alcohol Sale Continues Despite Ban

To ensure law and order, police and local administration had taken multiple measures. They sealed both domestic and foreign liquor shops before the yatra began. Raids were also conducted, and many illegal liquor dealers were arrested by police and excise officials.

However, liquor sales still continued in several areas. Before the ban, many vendors had stocked up on alcohol and sold it openly during the festival at inflated prices, taking advantage of the demand.

In summary, Sital Sasthi Yatra 2025 was a grand spiritual and cultural event. Although there were a few drawbacks, especially concerning the transgender community’s reduced presence and illegal liquor sales, the overall spirit of the festival remained vibrant and united.