Paush Bada celebrations are an annual tradition at Platinum Greens. For the first time, the Residents took part in the communal feast. The residents and people working at the site were offered fritters and other traditional delicacies. This initiative not only strengthens community bonds but also ensures that the younger generation remains connected to their cultural roots.
Paush Bada is a significant festival celebrated in Jaipur, Rajasthan, during the Hindu lunar month of Paush. This festival, which typically spans from mid-December to mid-January, marks the arrival of winter and is characterized by communal feasting and religious observance. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, with its origins tracing back to the 1960s when it was first celebrated at the Ghat Ke Balaji temple under the guidance of Mahant Shri Badri Das Ji of Shri Badrikashram. Over the years, Paush Bada has evolved into a grand celebration that attracts thousands of devotees.
The tradition of Paush Bada is believed to be over 250 years old, coinciding with the establishment of Jaipur itself. Historically, this festival served as a means for communities to come together during the harsh winter months when other forms of entertainment were scarce. Temples became focal points for gatherings where devotees would sing bhajans (devotional songs) and partake in communal meals.
In the Hindu calendar, Paush is considered a time for worshipping the Sun God, as it corresponds to the coldest months of December and January. The festival emphasizes the importance of consuming nutritious foods that provide warmth and strength during winter, such as dal-bati-churma (a traditional Rajasthani dish), khichdi and various types of pakoras (fried snacks) made from lentils.
The culinary aspect of Paush Bada is one of its most appealing features. The following dishes are commonly prepared and distributed during the festival:
These dishes are not only offered to deities but are also shared with devotees and those in need, reflecting the charitable spirit of the festival.
The scale of Paush Bada celebrations in Jaipur is truly remarkable. Major temples such as Khole Ke Hanuman Ji and Tadakeshwar Temple host grand feasts known as "Lakkhi Paush Bada," which cater to lakhs (hundreds of thousands) of devotees. For instance, it is estimated that around 20 lakh people partake in these festivities across various temples during the month-long celebration.
Paush Bada serves as a beautiful testament to Jaipur's rich cultural heritage and communal spirit. The festival not only welcomes winter but also fosters unity among residents through shared traditions and collective celebrations. As housing societies like Platinum Greens continue to embrace this age-old festival, they contribute to keeping these traditions alive while adapting them for modern community living. The essence of Paush Bada lies in its ability to bring people together - celebrating food, faith, and fellowship amidst the chilly embrace of winter.
