Chaitra Parba, also known as Parva, is an important festival celebrated in
Baripada of
Orissa. It is associated with Mayurbhanj Chhau. Acknowledged as the 'festivals of festivals', Chaitra Parba falls three days preceding Bishubha Sankrant (April) and lasts for three days. According to legends, it is considered auspicious to invoke
Lord Shiva during the month of Chaitra.
In early times, Chaitra Parba was as a religious festival with strict adherence of rituals, but with the advent of time, it has been converted into an art festival. On this occasion, Shaivite rituals are observed during day time and Chhau Dance is performed in the night.
