Jun 04, 2025
No Shame Here: India’s Traditional Period Ceremonies
Across India, menstruation was once celebrated through festivals and rituals. Let’s explore places where periods were treated with pride
Kamakhya Temple, Assam – Ambubachi Mela Every June, the Ambubachi Mela celebrates the goddess Kamakhya’s menstruation. The temple shuts for 3 days, symbolizing her rest
Odisha – Raja Parba Festival In Odisha, Raja Parba marks Mother Earth’s menstruation. Women rest, swing on decorated swings, wear new clothes, and eat festive foods
Tamil Nadu – Manjal Neerattu Vizha In Tamil Nadu, this 7-day event honors a girl’s first period. Families host turmeric bathing rituals, music, and feasts to bless her
Andhra Pradesh – Ritu Kala Samskara A girl’s menarche is marked by a special ceremony. She wears a sari for the first time and receives gifts from elders
Kerala – Thirandu Kalyanam This coming-of-age event includes temple visits, singing, and a party when a girl gets her first period, celebrating her entry into womanhood
Maharashtra – Celebration with Haldi Kumkum In rural areas, girls are honored with gifts and sweets. Women gather for Haldi Kumkum ceremonies marking this important milestone
Tribes of Arunachal – Galo Tribe Galo tribe women celebrate menarche with dances and symbolic rituals to welcome the girl into adult life with pride
Jharkhand – Santhal Tribe In the Santhal community, first periods are celebrated with a small feast and blessings from the village elders and mother figures
Karnataka – Customary Bathing Ceremonies Rural families celebrate a girl’s first period with turmeric baths, blessings, and gift exchanges, marking her transition with positivity
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