The Asanteman Council has officially outlined the schedule for the highly anticipated 2025 Odwira Festival.
The festival, which is a revered tradition in the Ashanti Kingdom, will be held from October 31 to November 30, featuring a series of cultural, spiritual, and historical events.
The announcement came during the Asanteman Council meeting on March 17, 2025, where Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, detailed the various activities that will mark the month-long celebration.
On Friday, October 31st, the festival will commence with Fofie Som-Kesie, followed by a week-long cleanup exercise across Asanteman, followed by mini Akwasidae Festival on Sunday, November 9.
Traditional Rituals and Ceremonies
On Friday November 1, Adwo-Adae Fiada – Emissaries will be dispatched to Sewuahene, reminding him of his duty to supply yams for the festival.
On Monday November 17, the Odwira activities will officially begin. Otumfuo will visit Bamprase, Akyeremafe, Bantama, and Bremang, where the Asante Queen will meet him before proceeding to the Cultural Centre for a ceremonial dress change.
On Wednesday November 19, Akomfuor da, the special day set for recognized priests, the Asantehene will host traditional priests in a sacred gathering.
On Thursday November 20, the Asantehene will visit various stool houses in the morning, followed by a grand durbar in the afternoon.
On Friday November 21, the Agonahene will lead a procession to the Manhyia Palace, presenting his regalia to Otumfuo.
Honors and Community Engagement
On Saturday November 22, a grand durbar will be held to honor individuals who have served Asanteman well.
On Sunday November 23, the Asantehene will visit Bampenase, Asokore Mampong, and Subinso.
Sacred Ceremonies and Closing Events
On November 24-25, the Bosommuru Sword ritual will take place, followed by Otumfuo’s visit to Esereso on Wednesday for a consecration ceremony and later awaiting the delivery of yams from Sewuahene at the Manhyia Palace.
On Friday, November 28, Sumankwaahene will host the Suman-goro ceremony, followed by a festival which will conclude with the grand Akwasidae Festival at the Manhyia Palace on Sunday November 30.
Cultural Significance and Expectations
The Odwira Festival is one of the most important events in the Ashanti cultural calendar, serving as a time for spiritual purification, renewal, and unity. It also showcases the rich traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom, attracting both locals and international visitors.
With a well-structured lineup of activities, the 2025 Odwira Festival promises to be a grand celebration, reinforcing the cultural heritage and historical legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom.
By Benjamin Aidoo
The post Otumfuo Osei Tutu II gears up for grand 2025 Odwira Festival celebrations first appeared on 3News.
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