Prathamastami

Prathamastami

In Odisha Prathamastami is celebrate for the life and prosperity of the eldest child who is offered a lighted lamp ovation by the senior female relatives followed by elaborate rituals during which the Mantras are recited. The celebration falls on the dark half eighth day – Ashtami – of the month of Margashira according to the Purnimanta calendar followed in North India, occurring after the eight day of Kartik Purnima. The ritual involves Aarathi of the eldest child by mother and relatives in which the maternal uncle sends the items necessary for the ritual, and Ganesha, Shashti devi and the family deity are worshipped. The main delicacy of the day is Enduri Pitha.