2024 Prathamastami Date: 5 December (Tuesday)
Prathamastami (Odia: ପ୍ରଥମାଷ୍ଟମୀ or ପଢୁଆଁଷ୍ଟମୀ) is a unique festival of Odisha that honors the firstborn child of the family. It is celebrated on the eighth day of the dark fortnight of the Odia month of Margashira, which usually falls in November or December. The festival is also known as Kaal Bhairava Ashtami, Soubhagini Ashtami, or Paap-nashini Ashtami, as it is believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune to the eldest child.
The firstborn child is considered special and auspicious in Odia culture, as he or she carries the responsibility and legacy of the family. The firstborn is also called the ‘podhuan’, which means the one who leads the way. Prathamastami is a way of expressing gratitude and love to the podhuan for being the source of joy and pride for the family.
The Wishes of Prathamastami
Prathamastami is a festival of joy and happiness, as the family celebrates the life and prosperity of the podhuan. The podhuan is showered with love and affection and wishes a long and successful life. The podhuan is also expected to reciprocate the feelings and respect the family's elders. Some of the common wishes of Prathamastami are:
- May you always be the light of our family and the pride of our clan. Happy Prathamastami!
- You are the first fruit of our love and the first blessing of our life. May you always be happy and healthy. Happy Prathamastami!
- You are the leader of our generation and the guardian of our tradition. May you always be wise and courageous. Happy Prathamastami!
- You are the star of our sky and the flower of our garden. May you always be bright and beautiful. Happy Prathamastami!
- You are the gift of God and the grace of our ancestors. May you always be protected and prosperous. Happy Prathamastami!
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