Varanasi: Odisha Government organizes a multi-city flagship cultural festival called ‘Odisha Parab’ to showcase the state’s culture, heritage, arts, handlooms, cuisine, and tourism destinations to audiences across India.
Designed as an experience-led promotional initiative, the event brings together artisans, performers, and culinary experts to offer a comprehensive look into Odia culture outside the state.
Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, led by Secretary Dr. Bijay Kumar Upadhyaya, on 22 August detailed the underlying vision of the Odisha Parab initiative during a high-level briefing with the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya.
Dr.Upadhyaya highlighted that it is the vision of Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi to project Odisha culture, heritage , art and craft through Odisha Parab. UP DCM, Shri Maurya was happy to learn about the State’s rich culture, traditions and heritage.
Dr.Upadhyaya said the cultural and promotional objectives driving the festival, emphasizing its role in fostering inter-state cultural exchange and strengthening heritage ties between Odisha and Uttar Pradesh.
During the discussion, Dr. Upadhyaya explained that Odisha Parab serves as a dynamic platform to project the state’s rich living heritage, centuries-old artistic traditions, and diverse literary legacy to broader Indian audiences.
He outlined how the multi-faceted festival integrates live artisan demonstrations, traditional performing arts, handlooms, and authentic regional cuisine into a unified cultural showcase.
The initiative aims to enhance public engagement with Odia culture while simultaneously driving tourism and commercial collaboration between the two states. Expressing strong support for the endeavor, the Deputy Chief Minister noted that such cross-cultural celebrations play a crucial role in deepening mutual understanding and building enduring cultural bridges within the nation.
Visitors at Odisha Parab can observe live craft demonstrations featuring traditional arts such as Pattachitra, silver filigree, stone carving, and Dhokra metalwork. Dedicated pavilions display iconic handloom creations, including Sambalpuri tie-and-dye sarees and silk fabrics. The event also features cultural performances spanning classical Odissi, Gotipua, and various tribal and folk dance forms.
In the culinary section, attendees can sample authentic Odia dishes, ranging from coastal seafood delicacies to traditional desserts like Chhena Poda. Alongside public exhibitions, the festival hosts B2B networking sessions and tourism roadshows aimed at fostering partnerships and promoting sustainable travel to Odisha.