Bhubaneswar: As Raja begins on Sunday, the iconic swings that once hung from sprawling banyan and mango trees across Odisha are becoming increasingly scarce in the twin cities. Yet, the festival is finding new expressions in apartment complexes, cafés, hotels and commercial spaces, ensuring that the spirit of Raja remains vibrant amid rapid urbanisation.Across Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, residential societies have installed decorative swings, organised mehndi competitions and planned cultural programmes to mark the three-day festival. For many urban families, community celebrations have replaced the traditional village gatherings centred around giant tree swings.“We may not have the large swings of our childhood anymore, but Raja is still special. Our apartment residents come together to celebrate, and children learn about the festival through games and cultural activities,” said Pramila Mishra, a retired teacher from Bhubaneswar.The changing face of Raja is also visible in the hospitality sector. Several hotels, cafés and restaurants have created Raja-themed décor featuring colourful dolis, flower arrangements and traditional Odia motifs. Many establishments have installed decorative swings at their entrances and selfie zones.“Customers, especially youngsters, love taking photographs on the decorated dolis. Raja-themed menus and traditional pithas have also become major attractions,” said Biswanath Das, a café owner in Bhubaneswar.Several hotels have introduced special Raja menus featuring traditional Odia delicacies, from poda, manda and arisa pitha, and kakara to dalma, santula and chhena-based desserts.“Raja is deeply connected with Odisha’s culinary heritage. Through our special menu, we want guests to experience the authentic flavours associated with the festival,” said Vinod Nath, a hotel manager in Cuttack.Another restaurateur, Subash Biswal, said: “We have seen a significant rise in demand for traditional pithas, especially from young customers who want to reconnect with their cultural roots through food.”For the younger generation, Raja is increasingly becoming a blend of tradition and contemporary celebrations. Shopping malls and eateries organise special events, while social media contests and cultural performances are drawing large crowds.“We enjoy the swings, but Raja is also about dressing up, meeting friends and celebrating our culture. The decorated cafés and public spaces add to the festive atmosphere,” said Salin Raul, a Class VIII student from Cuttack.Though the giant tree swings of old may be disappearing from the urban landscape, the essence of Raja lives on — mainly in the hearts of thousands celebrating one of Odisha’s most cherished festival.