Bakula Lagi Amabashya, also known as Bakula Amabashya or Baula Ambashya, is observed in Odisha during the months of December–January, which corresponds to the Odia month of Pousha. On this auspicious day, Bakula Lagi—the ritual offering of mango flowers—is performed at homes and temples across Odisha.
A special puja is offered to Lord Jagannath on Bakula Amabashya. This festival has deep roots in agrarian tradition. Farmers believe that offering mango flowers—locally known as Baula or Bakula—to Lord Jagannath ensures a healthy mango yield in the forthcoming mango season.
On this occasion, people prepare traditional delicacies such as Khira Ganitha and Dhala Manda Pitha. Mango flowers are lightly sprinkled over these pithas and offered to household deities. The prepared prasad is also ceremonially offered to mango trees, symbolizing gratitude to nature and prayers for abundance.
