Odisha's Raja Parba, that celebrates menstruation, Mother Earth's womanhood and the commencement of monsoon has kickstarted. In 2019 in India Raja Parba begins on June 15 and ends on Tuesday, June 18. The day is known as Mithuna Sankranti or Mithun Sankranti as per the Hindi lunar calendar and marks the beginning of the third Solar month. While the day is essentially celebrated in Odisha as Raja Parba, it is also known as "Asharh" in Eastern India, "Aani" in Southern India, 'Mithunam onth' in Kerala and in some Southern places as Sankramanam. It is a celebration of the yearly menstruating time for the Goddess Earth and in North Eastern areas of India, Ambubachi Mela is what the celebration is called. While the festival celebrates womanhood, the men also participate in this festival with full fervour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished people of Odisha on the auspicious occasion of Raja Parba. "Raja Parba is an auspicious occasion, which furthers brotherhood and happiness in our society. Greetings to the people of Odisha on this festival. May everyone be happy, healthy and may all aspirations be fulfilled," Modi tweeted.

Take a look at the tweet by PM Modi:

Also, check out a beautiful sand art made by Sudarsan Pattnaik to wish our country on the auspicious day:

The first, second and third day of 'Raja Parba' are called 'Pahili Rajo, 'Mithuna Sankranti', and Bhu Daaha' or 'Basi Raja', respectively. The fourth day which marks the ceremonial bath is called 'Vasumati Snana.'

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 15, 2019 10:50 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).