Ahmedabad: The vibrant spirit of Odisha has arrived in Gujarat as Deputy Chief Minister Shrimati Pravati Parida, joined by Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Shri Harsh Rameshkumar Sanghavi, officially inaugurated Odisha Parab 2026 this Saturday.
Held at the Gujarat University Convention and Exhibition Centre, the ceremony launched a three-day immersion into the cultural and aesthetic soul of the eastern state, running from March 21 to March 23.
The festival serves as a comprehensive showcase of Odisha’s diverse heritage, organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, with FICCI serving as the industry partner.
Secretary Tourism Odisha, Shri Balwant Singh graced the occasion, who has been playing a key role in driving the state’s regional outreach and tourism infrastructure programs, which include Odisha Parab for showcasing Odisha Tourism resources across the country.
The event receives additional collaborative support from various state departments, including Odia Language, Literature and Culture, as well as Mission Shakti and ORMAS. By bringing the sights, sounds, and flavors of Odisha to Ahmedabad, the initiative aims to bridge the geographical gap between the two states and foster deeper people-to-people connections.
During the inaugural session, Deputy CM Shrimati Parida described the event as a flagship outreach effort. She noted that Odisha is increasingly positioning itself as an experiential destination where ancient spirituality and nature coexist with modern infrastructure.
Her counterpart, Deputy CM Shri Sanghavi, praised the initiative for strengthening inter-state ties, noting that such collaborations are vital for the growth of domestic tourism and mutual cultural appreciation.
Beyond the public celebrations, Odisha Parab 2026 is also functioning as a strategic hub for industry growth. The event includes organized B2B and G2B sessions, allowing tourism stakeholders and government officials to discuss future partnerships.
The presence of high-ranking officials, including Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Shri Banchanidhi Pani and Odisha’s Tourism Secretary Shri Balwant Singh, underscores the administrative commitment to these cross-state ties.
Visitors to the exhibition centre can explore a curated landscape of Odia craftsmanship. The venue features dedicated pavilions for intricate handicrafts and handlooms, alongside live culinary demonstrations where chefs prepare authentic Odia delicacies. To capture the rhythmic essence of the state, the schedule is packed with performances ranging from classical Odissi to high-energy folk and tribal dances.
As the event continues through Monday, the people of Ahmedabad are invited to engage with the stories and traditions that define Odisha. The festival stands as a significant milestone in cultural diplomacy, turning a convention center into a living map of one of India’s most storied regions.