Chhad Khai –an ode to the Odia foodie

 As the sanctimonious nip in the air resonates with Naam- kirtans, with the reverberations echoing blowing conches, and temple bells Odias respectfully herald the pious month of Kartik after bidding adieu to Goddess Durga. As careful hands artfully decorate the Tulsi Chauras with beautiful colourful, tributes depicting the three deities Jagannath Balabhadra and Subhadra with dry rice flour mixed with colour the holy month of Kartik unfolds its mystic sensibilities by beckoning every Odia to cleanse, control and fortify themselves spiritually through a month long period of abstinence and rituals.

The celebrations acquire a special meaning for the thousands of Habishyalis (devotees) thronging the temple city of Puri. Thriving on a frugal meal once a day comprising of rice and habisha Daal, thousands of ardent devotees are caught in the frenzied pace of sacred rituals with the darshan of the various appearances of the lord and adding the much desired spiritual fervour.

Culminating with the sacred five day period of Panchaka devoted to the worship of Tulsi Awala Shiva and the sun Kartik Purnima or Dev purnima  marking the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripuri . Besides being accepted as the most propitious days for worshipping Shiva, next only to the Maha Shivaratri the full moon day assumes deep spiritual and religious meanings in the life of every devout Hindu. While Panchaka sees a steep rise in the prices of greens and vegetables the increased sales of sweet potatoes, Oou saaru and saaga indicate their inclusion in the special diet.

It always augurs well for followers of faith when science and religion merge. Restraining from a spicy diet, rich in animal proteins helps the body as per Ayurveda principles negating the ill effects of pitta, predominant in sharad. A vegetable enriched diet not only helps cleanse the body of toxins but practicing rituals and ceremonies also help regulate metabolism apart from deepening resolve and spirituality. Further the early morning dip in water bodies whether sacred or local are believed to aid in supplying the much-required Vitamin D especially at the crack of dawn. Welcoming winter, and the marriage season the last day of Kartik also marks the last day to take Ganga Snana , besides being revered as the birth day of  Guru Nanak. The day also sees the sailing of the Boita or paper boats by many as a symbol to bring prosperity into their lives an extension of ancient custom, which saw merchants of the state setting sail on far off voyages for trade.

 As the resplendent glow of Kartik Purnima enchants and blesses the holy, it`s enthusiastic welcome of Chaad Khai is warmly received by every Odia. Ushering the festive mood by sharply swerving away from the period of restraint Chhad Khai unleashes a long and famed trail of gastronomic delights with unmatched liveliness across households.

The thronging crowds, jostling for space in front of the butcher shop or the fish market openly reflect the desires of the Odia Foodie. Opening a cornucopia of non vegetarian delights with a tantalizing array of dishes including the much loved Macha Besara with the fried fish appetizingly nestling in a bed of tangy spicy mustard curry, to Kasha Mangsha famed to leave a fiery trail of aroma and taste as the mutton melts in the mouth with the delicious Kankada(Crab) Kukuda (Chicken) and prawn (Chingudi)curries appease  and tease the taste buds enticingly .Fish remains close to the Odia palate since ancient times and hence its natural habitat the water considered worthy to be revered .

 With rural belts strongly believing that one takes rebirth, as a crane if one doesn’t adhere to custom chad khaai being a delicious deviation from austerity invites every Odia to delve into the lavish fanfare with gay abandon.  Not only is the festivity celebrated in the state and nation but also across the Odia diaspora as well. The predominantly non -vegetarian food festival reinforces and enriches tradition custom besides strengthening roots and cultural transcendence. With commercial offerings becoming increasingly attractive in recent times, vindicated by many city-based eateries announcing weeklong celebrations, reflecting strong departures from norms, and festivities crossing thresholds and the hearth gaining momentum under the garb of neo practices.

  As Kartik Poornima ushers Chhad Khai and Balijatra celebrations, with Prathamashtami and the weekly Marga shira Guruvaar eagerly awaiting in the wings to bless each Odia threshold with happiness and prosperity let the joyous pride and respect for a rich legacy blossom forth in profusion spreading the fragrance of joy and unity amongst one and all.