Odisha Govt Grants Rs 1.08 Crore For Sital Sasthi Celebrations In Sambalpur

Bhubaneswar: Reaffirming its commitment to the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s cultural heritage, the State Government has announced financial assistance of Rs 1.08 crore for the celebration of the famed Sital Sasthi festival in Sambalpur district.

The grant, approved by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department following the direction of Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, will benefit 21 Sital Sasthi committees that organise the annual festival across the district.

Widely regarded as one of western Odisha’s largest cultural and religious celebrations, Sital Sasthi draws thousands of devotees and visitors every year. The festival, which symbolises the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is known for its elaborate rituals, grand processions and community participation.

Culture Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj welcomed the Chief Minister’s decision, stating that the festival is a reflection of Odisha’s rich cultural traditions and spiritual values.

“Sital Sasthi is a vibrant celebration of Odisha’s rich traditions, cultural heritage and spiritual ethos. The State Government remains committed towards preservation and promotion of such vibrant cultural traditions. This assistance will ensure the festival is celebrated with greater grandeur and enthusiasm, while further strengthening Odisha’s distinct cultural identity at the national and global levels,” he said.

The Minister noted that cultural festivals such as Sital Sasthi not only preserve age-old traditions but also promote social harmony and showcase Odisha’s cultural richness to a wider audience.

Officials said the financial support would help organisers make better arrangements for rituals, cultural performances, processions and public participation, ensuring a smooth and successful celebration.

The State Government has been extending support to several cultural and religious festivals across Odisha as part of its efforts to safeguard traditional art, culture and heritage while promoting cultural tourism in different regions of the state.