Dhenkanal: The much-celebrated “Bara Dibasa” (Bara Day) of Dhenkanal, known for its iconic local delicacy Dhenkanal Bara, was observed with great enthusiasm across the district on Tuesday.
A central programme was organised at the old Zilla Parishad Conference Hall by the district administration in association with the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture.
Zilla Parishad Chairperson Archna Puhan, attending as the chief guest, highlighted the unique taste and cultural significance of Dhenkanal Bara, stating that the traditional dish has given the district a distinct identity. She expressed optimism that ongoing efforts to secure Geographical Indication (GI) status for the delicacy would succeed.
District Collector Ashish Ishwar Patil said that coordinated initiatives are underway to promote Dhenkanal Bara at national and international levels, adding that the process to obtain GI recognition is actively progressing.
Among others, Dhenkanal Municipality Chairperson Jayanti Patra, Additional District Magistrate Ramesh Chandra Sethi, and Krushi Vigyan Kendra Senior Scientist Bimalendu Mohanty attended the event as distinguished guests and spoke about the special characteristics and heritage value of the delicacy.
Chief Development Officer of the Zilla Parishad, Dipti Ranjan Sethi, delivered the welcome address at the outset, while in-charge District Culture Officer Abhishek Behera proposed the vote of thanks.
The administration also observed Bara Dibasa across all blocks of the district, with various organisations in Dhenkanal town joining the celebrations. Prizes were distributed to winners of a painting competition organised earlier, and a book titled “Dhenkanal Bara” was released on the occasion.
Meanwhile, on the seventh day of Odia Pakhya celebrations, “Shishu Katha Dibas” (Children’s Story Day) was observed across the district, during which copies of Barnabodha and children’s storybooks were distributed in schools.
