Preparations Begin for Odia Pakhya 2026: A Fortnight of Culture and Heritage
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has set the stage for Odia Pakhya 2026, a fortnight-long celebration of Odia language, literature, and culture from April 1 to April 14.
The initiative, beginning on Utkal Diwas and concluding on Odia New Year, aims to reconnect citizens with their roots while promoting pride in Odia identity.
A preparatory meeting chaired by Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, along with senior officials from the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department and Odisha Sahitya Akademi, finalised a diverse calendar of events.
The celebrations will feature Odisha Day observance, Khadi Chhuan Day, Traditional Attire Day, Folk Art Day, Traditional Food Day, Cleanliness Day, blood donation drives, Odia nameplate campaigns, heritage mass runs, youth writers’ conferences, and discussions on eminent Odia personalities.
Special initiatives include the launch of a dedicated logo and website, a quiz competition with digital certificates, and outreach programmes targeting non-resident Odias, youth, and students.
Events will also extend to remote and border areas, ensuring grassroots participation.
Officials emphasised that Odia Pakhya 2026 is not just a cultural festival but a movement to preserve and promote Odisha’s rich heritage, with coordinated efforts across departments to maximise public involvement.
