SAMBALPUR: The divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati was solemnised late tonight.
As per the tradition, the procession of the groom (Lord Shiva) started from Loknath Baba of Jharuapada, Balunkeswar Baba of Nandapada and Jageswar Baba of Mudipada with the idols of Lord Shiva placed in a palanquin to the house of the bride - Goddess Parvati.
The air rented with the beats of traditional drums and cymbals as artistes performed all along the route to the residence of the bride. The entire marriage is akin to normal marriage with a lot of grandeur complete and tableaux accompanying the procession. Once the procession reaches the residence of the respective brides, the marriage is solemnised after which a huge reception is thrown open for the bride-groom party. Even dowry, comprising home utility items from cot to utensils and gold jewellery, are given by the bride’s parents. The entire town and people from neighbouring villages flock to Sambalpur to witness the divine marriage amidst tight security arrangements.
Sital Sashti is perhaps the only festival where humans don the role of the parents of the Gods.