Odisha Sets Guinness World Record with Largest Serving of Pakhala

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has etched its name in the Guinness World Records by preparing the largest serving of Pakhala, the state’s beloved fermented rice dish.

The Tourism Department achieved this feat during the Pakhala Paraba 2026 festival at Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar, where a staggering 1,174 kilograms of Pakhala were served in a single vessel.

The event, coinciding with World Pakhala Day, showcased more than 300 traditional side dishes, highlighting Odisha’s agrarian roots and culinary diversity.

Beyond its cultural symbolism, the initiative carried a strong social message: the food was distributed to underprivileged communities through the Robin Hood Army, ensuring zero wastage.

Officials emphasised that this achievement not only celebrates Odisha’s gastronomic heritage but also positions the state as a rising hub for food tourism.

With its probiotic benefits and refreshing taste, Pakhala has now transcended from a household staple to a global cultural icon.