Raja Parba, also known as Mithuna Sankranti, is a ______ -day-long festival of womanhood celebrated in Odisha, India.

three

The correct answer is Option (4) - three

Raja Parba, also referred to as Mithuna Sankranti, is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a three-day-long festival dedicated to celebrating womanhood, particularly menstruation and fertility. The word "Raja" translates to "menstruation" in Odia, and the festival marks the onset of the agricultural monsoon season and the earth's menstruation cycle. During Raja Parba, women are honored and celebrated for their role in the cycle of life and fertility. The festival is characterized by various rituals, cultural activities, and traditional practices that highlight the importance of women in society.

The three days of Raja Parba are known as:

1. Pahili Raja: The first day of the festival is dedicated to the preparation for menstruation and is considered a time for rest and relaxation. Women indulge in traditional rituals like applying turmeric paste and oil to their bodies, wearing new clothes, and enjoying various festive foods.
2. Raja Sankranti: The second day, known as Raja Sankranti, marks the beginning of the solar month of Mithuna (Gemini). It is the main day of celebration when women engage in various cultural activities, including swinging on decorated swings (dolabedi), playing traditional games like puchi khela (tire swing), and singing folk songs.
3. Bhu Daaha: The third and final day of Raja Parba is called Bhu Daaha, which translates to "earth burning." It symbolizes the rejuvenation of the earth's fertility and marks the end of the festival. On this day, women perform rituals involving the worship of Mother Earth and offer prayers for a bountiful harvest.

Overall, Raja Parba is a festival that celebrates femininity, fertility, and the beauty of womanhood. It holds great cultural significance in Odisha, fostering a sense of community, tradition, and respect for women in society.