Odisha Chief Minister Calls for Celebration of 'Odia Pakhya'
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Synopsis
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi encourages citizens to celebrate 'Odia Pakhya' from April 1-14, embracing traditional food, attire, and language while reflecting on the state's heritage and aspirations for future development.
Key Takeaways
- Odia Pakhya celebration runs from April 1 to 14.
- Promotes Odia traditions, food, and attire.
- Marks the 90th formation day of Odisha state.
- Goal of a $500 billion economy by 2036.
- Focus on Odia self-identity and ambition.
Bhubaneswar, April 1 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, on Tuesday encouraged all residents of the state to partake in the celebration of 'Odia Pakhya', a two-week tribute to Odisha's heritage, scheduled from April 1 to 14. This celebration emphasizes the importance of embracing Odia traditions, culinary practices, attire, and language.
During the state-level festivities for 'Odisha Day' held at Satyabhamapur in Cuttack, the birthplace of the renowned Odisha freedom fighter Madhusudan Das, the Chief Minister asserted that the 4.5 crore Odias are the true treasures of Odisha.
“Every drop of our blood is imbued with Odia Pride. Our behavior, manner of speaking, and cuisine reflect our rich Odia culture. We are dedicated to fostering that Odia essence and pride. Therefore, we are hosting Odia Pakhya from today until April 14,” he stated.
The Chief Minister urged every Odia to indulge in traditional Odia meals, don traditional attire, converse in Odia, and read Odia newspapers and magazines during this festive period.
He noted that this year commemorates the 90th formation anniversary of the separate Odisha state, mentioning that one of the primary aims of the Utkal Sammilani, the organization pivotal in the establishment of a distinct Odisha province, was the comprehensive development of an independent Odisha.
“Regrettably, even after 77 years of independence, Odisha has not fully harnessed its potential or achieved substantial progress in state and community development,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the people of Odisha initiated change by electing the BJP to realize their aspirations.
Majhi affirmed that his party is devoted to making those dreams a reality. “The aspirations of 4.5 crore Odia people will undoubtedly be realized. Odisha will celebrate its centenary as a separate state in 2036. We will construct robust infrastructure to foster a prosperous Odisha by 2036. Looking forward, we aim to transform Odisha into a growth engine for a developed India by 2047. Each foundational element of a thriving Odisha will be established by the people of Odisha, who will rewrite their illustrious history,” the Chief Minister added.
He asserted that his administration will achieve the vision of a developed Odisha through three pillars: Odia self-identity, ambition, and relentless effort.
He mentioned the government's commitment to elevating Odisha to a $500 billion economy by 2036 and a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047.
At the state-level event in Satyabhamapur, the Chief Minister referred to the birthplace of Utkal Gaurav Madhusudan Das, affectionately known as Madhubabu, as a 'Tirth Sthan' (sacred pilgrimage site) for every Odia.
He stated that the Odia community united at Madhubabu's call and established a separate linguistic state 89 years ago on April 1.
He laid the groundwork for the Integrated Development of Madhusudan Das’ birthplace, with an investment of Rs 21 crore designated for the construction of a library, interpretation center, statue, guest building, and more.
