Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Odisha government has announced a 14-day ‘Odia Pakhya’ celebration from April 1 (Odisha Day, or Odisha Dibasa) to April 14 (Odia New Year and Maha Vishuba Sankranti) to promote Odia identity, covering language, culture, and heritage. The announcement was made by the Minister of Odia Language, Literature & Culture Suryabanshi Suraj in a press conference held on Sunday.
This 14-day celebration aims to promote the Odia language, literature, culture, and heritage through various programs across the state, from the block level to the state level. The festival will showcase Odia culture through traditional attire and cuisine. The government has planned a special initiative, “Ama Ruchi, Ama Khadya” (Food Festival focusing on Odia Cuisine) and “Ama Poshak, Ama Parichaya” (Traditional Attire Day) to highlight traditional Odia food and attire, respectively.
Similarly, “Barnabodha Utsav,” which will highlight the well-known “Barnabodha” text, will be held to promote Odia literature and language. In order to promote a literary culture in the state, another program called “Asa Bahitiye Kiniba” (Let’s Buy a Book) would encourage book buying and reading. For their contributions to Odia art and culture, senior folk artists will get recognition. To support young authors, a unique conference for young writers will be organized.
