When is Pana Sankranti 2024? Date, timing, history, significance and celebration of Odia New Year

Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Bishuba Sankranti, is the traditional New Year celebration of the Odia people of Odisha, India. The event falls on the first day of the lunar month of Baisakha, which corresponds to the first day of the traditional solar month of Meṣa in the Odia solar calendar.

In Odisha, a sweet drink called 'pana' is prepared and shared on this auspicious day, especially in rural areas. The festivities also include the worship of Lord Jagannath, who is believed to have created the pana drink. The festival is a time of rebirth, new beginnings and community, and its colourful celebrations perfectly capture Odisha's rich cultural heritage.

From date to history, scroll down to know more. (Also read: Baisakhi to Vishu: Interesting facts about spring harvest festivals celebrated in India )