The Kalinga Parivaar brought the essence of Odisha to Reading on 19th October 2024, as they celebrated Kumar Purnima in a grand and joyous fashion. The festival, significant in Odia culture, saw over 200 people from various parts of the UK gather at Basildon Village Hall in Upper Basildon to partake in the festivities. Kumar Purnima, traditionally celebrated by unmarried girls and married women in Odisha, is a festival of hope and prosperity, where prayers are offered to the full moon for a bright future.
This year’s celebration in Reading was a colorful blend of traditional rituals, cultural performances, and heartfelt community spirit. As per tradition, Odia women, dressed in new clothes, gathered to perform rituals and offer prayers to the full moon. This symbolic act, deeply rooted in Odia culture, is believed to bring good fortune and happiness, particularly to the younger generation.
The event was not just about rituals; it was also filled with joyous cultural performances that reflected the rich artistic traditions of Odisha alongside modern influences. The children of the community stole the show with their energetic Sambalpuri dance routines, showcasing the grace and heritage of classical Odia dance. Their dedication and precision were highly appreciated, making their performances one of the event’s standout moments.
Adding a contemporary twist to the evening, Bollywood dance performances brought a wave of excitement and energy. Families and friends gathered to cheer on the performers, who wowed the crowd with a blend of traditional and modern dance forms. The Bollywood segment, accompanied by popular Hindi songs, got everyone tapping their feet and clapping along, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
One of the true highlights of the evening came when the renowned singer Sid Mohanty took the stage. Known for his soulful voice, Sid captivated the audience with a mix of Odia and Bollywood songs. His performance was met with great enthusiasm, as many in the audience sang along and enjoyed the melodious tunes. Sid’s ability to blend tradition and modernity through his music helped bridge the generational gap, making his performance a memorable one.
The cultural program also featured stellar performances by other talented individuals. Ria, Sia, Saanvi, Shreyan, Sparsh, Sragvi, Anya, Reena Khuntia, Arya Dey, and Ashok mesmerized the audience with their singing and dancing, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. Their performances, a mix of tradition and contemporary styles, reflected the strong cultural pride and creativity of the Odia community.
Behind the success of the event was a dedicated team of volunteers who took on the responsibility of cooking and serving food for everyone. The homemade feast, prepared with love and dedication, included traditional Odia dishes such as Puri, Dahi Baigan, Aloo Mustard, Kheera Gaja, Chicken Kadhai, Odisha Mutton Curry, and Tomato Khajoor Khata. For dessert, attendees were treated to Sweet Paan, completing the authentic culinary experience.
The celebration of Kumar Purnima 2024 in Reading was a wonderful opportunity for the Odia community to come together and reconnect with their cultural roots. The event was not just about preserving traditions, but also about strengthening the bonds between families and friends living far from their homeland. It provided a platform for the younger generation to understand and appreciate their heritage while also embracing modernity through Bollywood music and dance.
The evening concluded with a sense of unity, pride, and joy as the community celebrated together. The Kumar Purnima celebration by the Kalinga Parivaar in Reading was more than just an event; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Odia community in the UK. Through rituals, music, dance, and community service, the festival honoured the traditions of the past while embracing the vibrancy of the present.
