Maha Bishuba Sankranti 2026: Easy bela pana summer drink recipe for sacred Odia New Year bhog

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New Delhi: Odia New Year 2026, also known as Maha Bishuba Sankranti and Pana Sankranti, will be celebrated on April 14. On this auspicious day, the Bela pana drink recipe holds special importance in every Odia household across the globe. Prepared using ripe wood apple, jaggery, banana and fresh cottage cheese, this traditional summer beverage is both nourishing and cooling. Bela pana is offered as sacred bhog to deities and the Tulsi plant, marking the transition into the New Year with devotion and gratitude.

The drink is known for its refreshing taste and its ability to help the body cope with rising temperatures. Many families consider it a natural support during peak summer, as it helps maintain hydration and provides relief against heat-related discomfort. Simple ingredients, gentle sweetness and light spice make Bela pana a festive favourite during Odia New Year celebrations. Here is the quick and easy recipe.

Bela pana drink recipe for Maha Bishuba Sankranti

Bela pana drink ingredients

  • 1 Ripe wood apple (bela)
  • 3-4 Cups chilled water
  • 4-5 Tbsp jaggery or sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 Tbsp grated coconut
  • 2 Tbsp chenna (crumbled fresh cottage cheese)
  • 1 Mashed ripe banana
  • 1 Tsp black pepper powder
  • Cashews and raisins (optional)

How to prepare bela pana drink

  1. Crack open the ripe wood apple and scoop out the soft pulp.
  2. Place it in a bowl, add about one cup of water and mash thoroughly with a spoon until smooth.
  3. Pass this mixture through a sieve to remove seeds and thick fibres.
  4. Transfer the strained pulp into a large pitcher. Pour in the remaining chilled water and stir gently.
  5. Add jaggery or sugar and mix until fully dissolved.
  6. Stir in the mashed banana, grated coconut and crumbled chenna, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
  7. Sprinkle black pepper powder and give it a final stir. Top with cashews and raisins if desired. Serve well chilled.

The bela pana drink recipe is not only used as a festive beverage. It carries tradition, comfort and seasonal wisdom, making Odia New Year or Maha Bishuba Sankranti celebrations truly complete.