Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended heartily greetings to the people of Odisha on the occasion of Utkala Dibasa today.
In a message on social media site X, the President extended warm greetings to the people on Odisha Day. It is an occasion to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and remarkable contribution of its people in various fields, she said.
“The warm and hospitable people of Odisha have worked hard for the progress of the state while preserving its glorious traditions. Odisha has played an important role in the freedom struggle and produced several makers of modern India. I pray to Mahaprabhu Jagannath for peace and prosperity of Odisha!,” the President said.
Similarly, PM Modi remarked that India takes pride in Odisha’s history, literature and music, adding that Centre and Odisha governments are working extensively to further the State’s progress.
In separate posts on X, he wrote: “Warm wishes on Utkala Dibasa! This day is a fitting tribute to Odisha’s glorious culture. India takes pride in Odisha’s history, literature and music. Odisha’s people are hardworking and have excelled in diverse fields. Over the last year, the Centre and Odisha Governments are working extensively to further the state’s progress.”
Chief Minister Shri Majhi in a video message greeted the people of Odisha Dibasa and appealed to people to celebrate Odia Pakhya from today till April 14.
“Heartfelt greetings to our sisters and brothers of Odisha on the occasion of Odisha Day. A state endowed with a glorious cultural heritage and immense natural resources, Odisha has always been a jewel in Bharat’s pride. Today the state is pacing to become Bharat’s growth engine by realizing its true potential. May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless Odisha to touch new heights of prosperity,” Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in a X post.
This year, the State government has decided to celebrate statehood day for two weeks. The Government has lined up several events and programmes to celebrate it in a massive way across the State.
Here is the schedule:
April 2: Traditional “Khadi Chhuaan” ceremony
April 3: “Ama Poshak Ama Parichaya” – promotion of traditional attire
April 4: Campaign for Odia signboards in government offices and businesses
April 5: Heritage Marathon by the Department of Sports and Youth Services
April 6: Cleanliness drive at historical sites
April 7: Distribution of Odia language learning materials
April 8: Blood donation camp
April 9: “Buy an Odia Book” campaign
April 10: Celebration of folk art
April 11: Young Writers’ Day
April 12: Discussion on Odisha’s great leaders, organized by Odisha Sahitya Akademi
April 13: Promotion of traditional Odia cuisine
April 14: Celebration of Odia New Year