Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi urged everyone to not limit the celebration of Odia identity to just 14 days of ‘Odia Pakhya’ but to make the Odia language, literature, and culture an inseparable part of daily life throughout the year.
Addressing the concluding ceremony of “Odia Pakhya–2026” organised at the OUAT College of Agriculture, the Chief Minister described the successful observance of ‘Odia Paksha’ not merely as a festival, but as a powerful declaration of Odia identity and the beginning of a new cultural renaissance.
“Cultural foundation is essential for meaningful economic prosperity. Without it, development has no real value,” the Chief Minister said.
Recalling the historic struggles for the protection of the Odia language and culture, he said the movement has strengthened the national identity of the Odia people. He paid rich tributes to the contributions of legendary literary figures like Gangadhar Meher, Radhanath Ray, Madhusudan Rao, and Fakir Mohan Senapati, who gave a new direction to Odia literature.
The Chief Minister informed that this year’s ‘Odia Paksha’, which began from Utkal Dibasa (Odisha Day), has been observed with the aim of awakening Odia pride and identity at every level of society. Several innovative initiatives were taken, including: The ‘Ama Poshak Ama Parichay’ campaign to promote traditional handloom textiles, ‘Pravbesh Utsav’ to welcome children into schools, a people’s movement to ensure the use of Odia name boards in all commercial establishments.
He highlighted key achievements during the fortnight-long celebration such as distribution of over 18,000 copies of ‘Barnabodha’ and ‘Sishu Lekha’ books, a record number of blood units collected in a single day, a grand Lokakala Road Show in Pipili that showcased Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister noted that the global recognition of Pakhala as a unique dish and the promotion of folk arts have further enhanced the pride of Odia culture. He announced that the state government has allocated Rs 614 crore in the current budget for the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture. Major initiatives include the establishment of a ‘Chhau Academy’ for the preservation of Chhau dance and the development of birthplaces of great Odia personalities into cultural tourism centres.
The Chief Minister further stated that the use of Odia language in all government offices will be strictly promoted, and teaching of Odia in all schools will be made mandatory. He called upon everyone to extend full support towards realizing the vision of a developed and culturally rich Odisha under Vision 2036 and Vision 2047.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister visited an exhibition organised by the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture and released several books .Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the efforts of the Culture Department have once again brought Odia lifestyle, traditions, culture, and cuisine into every household.
Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan remarked that for the first time, after the present government came to power, the complete observance of ‘Odia Paksha’ has been carried out in a meaningful way. He added that the process of ensuring dignity and happiness for every section of society has now begun.
Odia Language, Literature and Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that the ‘Odia Paksha’ programme, which started last year on an experimental basis, has touched the hearts of every Odia person and has now become a mass festival celebrated in every home across the state.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg highlighted the important steps taken during the last 14 days.
In a special announcement, celebrity chef Ranveer Brar has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the global promotion of Odia cuisine, while Chef Avinash has been named ‘Odia Culinary Champion’. Along with chefs Anju and Manju, this campaign aims to preserve the stories and science behind traditional Odia recipes and take them from grassroots level to the international stage.
The programme began with a welcome address by Rashmita Panda, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture. Special Secretary Deb Prasad Dash proposed the vote of thanks.
The event, held on the auspicious Maha Bishuba Sankranti and Odia New Year, reflected the government’s strong commitment to preserving and promoting Odia identity, language, and cultural heritage.
