Raja Sankranti is an agriculture-oriented festival, mainly observed in the coastal districts of Odisha for three days. The last day of the month of Jestha is known as Pahili Raja, and the first day of the month of Asadha is Raja Sankranti. Even in some places in Odisha, the fourth day of the Raja festival is also celebrated as Basumata Puja. During this festival, Earth, or “Basu Mata,” is considered to be a menstruating woman. Hence, digging soil or tempering it in any way is strictly prohibited. Mother Earth is said to undergo pollution due to menstruation and is given rest just like a woman, imposed with several restrictions. 

Raja is also considered one of the chief festivals for unmarried girls or potential mothers. The women folk, especially the virgins, forbid all kinds of manual work during these three days of the Raja festival. They don’t carry water, cut vegetables, sweep houses, sew clothes, grind grains, comb hair, walk barefoot, etc. So, all kinds of restrictions are imposed both for the land and the womenfolk.  Though festivals are deeply associated with religion (faith), their main purpose seems to be recreational. They mitigate the monotony of life. Men and women tired of a hard routine need change or relaxation, which festivals provide. Thus, festivals promote a common cause and develop social solidarity, fellow feelings, and cooperation. They also instill self-discipline and emphasize the spiritual value of human existence, besides providing enjoyment and recreation. Source