Bali Trutiya is a fast observed by married women in
Orissa. The images of Uma and
Maheshwar, made of sand are worshipped by them. It is celebrated on the third day of Bhadrava (August-September).
Legend has it that in the Padma Purana, Parvati observed this fast and after that she was married to Shiva. It is also said that, Lord Ram also worshipped the divine couple for winning the war against Ravana.
Believing the curses of people will be turned blessings on this day, young men have freedom of striking the roofs of the houses with sticks and take of the stone steps from the door.
