| Holiday Name: | Saama Chakeba |
| Type: | Hindu |
| Nickname: | Saama Khela |
| Observedby: | Maithils and Tharu people (India & Nepal) |
| Longtype: | Cultural, historical, religious |
| Significance: | Bond between siblings |
| Begins: | The day after Kartik Shashthi |
| Ends: | Kartik Purnima |
| Duration: | 7 days |
| Date2013: | 10–17 November |
| Date2014: | 06 November |
Saama Chakeba is a Hindu festival, originating from the Mithila region[1] of the Indian subcontinent.[2] [3] It is a festival of unity. It is celebrated in November and commences when birds begin their migration from the Himalayas down towards the plains of India.[4] According to the Hindustan Times, the festival, which includes folk theater and song, celebrates the love between brothers and sisters and is based on a legend recounted in the Puranas. It is celebrated by Maithils & Tharu people of India and Nepal.[5]
An interesting aspect of Sama Chakeva is its environmental message. The festival coincides with the seasonal migration of birds from the Himalayas to the plains, and the clay bird idols are a tribute to these migratory birds. This reflects the Maithili people’s deep respect for nature and highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings.[6]
It tells the story of Sama, a daughter of Krishna who had been falsely accused of wrongdoing. Her father punished her by turning her into a bird, but the love and sacrifice of her brother Chakeva eventually allowed her to regain human form. It is a story passed down through generations, forming an essential part of the cultural fabric of Mithila.[7]
The celebration starts from the night of Chhath puja. This is the 7th day of the month of Kartik. Young, mostly unmarried girls assemble near the ghats of chhath with a basket containing small idols of sama and chakeva, candles, kohl, clay made daily use appliances etc. at night.[8]
They sing traditional songs, perform some rituals like making kohl, exchanging baskets. This celebration continues till Kartik Purnima. On the auspicious occasion of Kartik Purnima, girls take a dip in river and the idols of Sama and Chakeva are immersed in the river.[9] [10]
''Tohe Badka Bhaiya ho''
''Sama Khele Chalali''
''Chugala Koṭhi Chhaur Bhaiya Koṭhi Chaur''
''Jotala Kheta Me Baisih He''
''Sama Khele Geliyai ge Bahini''
and Many more...[11]