BARIPADA: While the entire state is soaked in celebrating Raja festival enthusiastically, the Khadia community in Mayurbhanj district takes this as a unique opportunity for young men and women to choose their life partners.
Hundreds of youths from Morada, Chitrada, Betnoti, Suliapada, and Rashgovindpur blocks gathered at their village grounds on Saturday to participate in swing and song competitions, which serve as a traditional matchmaking process. This annual event coincides with the Car Festival and lasts for about ten days.
In line with ritual practices, ‘Raja Dolis’ (swings of the festival) are set up in villages with tribal residents. The competitions begin with a priest worshipping the tribal deity ‘Badam.’ Following the worship, young men and women engage in various contests and a questioning competition known as ‘Badi,’ which helps them select their future spouses.
Once couples choose each other, they meet with their families at the Baripada weekly market on the first day of Rath Yatra to formalise their union in a simple ceremony.
Rajkishor Naik, a researcher of tribal culture, spoke on the uniqueness of this marriage tradition, emphasising the absence of dowry and the belief that matches are divinely ordained.
Susmita Naik, a girl who chose Rakesh Naik as her partner, expressed her joy, citing the community’s belief in the power of love over material wealth. She stated that finding a life partner is considered the most valuable achievement, making dowry and grand celebrations unnecessary.
For those unable to find a partner during the initial competitions, the ten-day period offers multiple opportunities, allowing them to marry on the spot if they find a match.
Mangal Naik, who participated in the competition but did not succeed, acknowledged the longstanding tradition and its role in familial acceptance and continuity. He affirmed that this system, free from parental objections, has been celebrated since his forefathers’ time, fostering family growth within the community.
Tribal priest Gopandhu Dehury emphasised the importance of this tradition in promoting dowry-free marriages and its positive message to other communities.