Bhubaneswar: At the heart of Odisha’s vibrant Raja Parba celebrations this year, from June 14-16, a soulful culinary revival is underway. The Subhadra Shakti Food Festival, currently captivating attendees at the Vikash Mela, IDCO Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar, is more than just a gastronomic event; it’s a profound celebration of Odisha’s rich culinary heritage, brought back to life by the state’s Self Help Group (SHG) women.
Running from June 11th to 18th, 2025, the festival features 26 SHG-run stalls, each a treasure trove of traditional Odia flavors, from long-forgotten recipes to rustic staples. The public response has been overwhelming, with sales already exceeding ₹10 lakh by June 14th, indicating a powerful comeback for Odisha’s “forgotten foods.”
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi alongside Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, the festival has become a key highlight of Raja Parba. Visitors are thronging to savor iconic dishes like Dahibara Aloodum, Chenapoda, and Malpua, alongside live pitha counters serving warm Chakuli and Kheer Mohana. Forgotten favorites such as Pakhala, Biri Chakuli, and Mudhi Mutton are proudly featured, alongside innovative millet-based products.
This festival stands out for its commitment to authenticity and cultural revival. These dishes, once staples passed down generations, are now reclaiming their place in urban menus. Beyond cultural preservation, the Subhadra Shakti Food Festival is a powerful economic platform. The SHG members are not just home cooks; they are emerging entrepreneurs and cultural ambassadors. Their success at the festival is directly contributing to their journey towards becoming “Lakhpati Didis,” women earning ₹1 lakh or more annually under a government initiative, effectively turning tradition into sustainable livelihood. It’s a powerful intersection of culture, commerce, and empowerment, where forgotten recipes are paving the way for new futures and a “Viksit” (developed) Odisha.