Odisha Culture Minister Encourages Traditional Attire on April 3
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Synopsis
On April 3, the Odisha Culture Minister has encouraged citizens to wear traditional Odia ethnic attire to celebrate 'Odia Pakhya 2025', a 14-day heritage celebration that began on April 1.
Key Takeaways
- Odia Pakhya celebration runs from April 1 to April 14.
- April 3 is designated as Odia Ethnic Wear Day.
- Participation promotes local handloom industries.
- Chief Minister emphasizes the importance of traditional attire.
- Wearing handloom attire supports the local economy.
Bhubaneswar, April 2 (NationPress) The Odisha Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj has called on the citizens of Odisha to don traditional Odia ethnic attire on April 3, as a part of the 14-day long celebration of Odisha's heritage, known as ‘Odia Pakhya 2025’, which commenced on April 1.
The “Ama Poshak, Ama Parichaya” (Odia Ethnic Wear Day) event will be hosted by the state’s Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts department on the third day of Odia Pakhya this Thursday.
Suraj stated that following the directive from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha is celebrating ‘Odia Pakhya’ for the first time from April 1 to April 14.
The third day of this 14-day event will be recognized as ‘Paridhan Dibasa’.
“This day is dedicated to the promotion of our indigenous Odia traditional attire. I encourage everyone to participate in this grand festival tomorrow by wearing our traditional clothing that represents Odia identity. Our ethnic wear is our identity,” urged Suraj on Wednesday.
In a special message, Chief Minister Majhi remarked: “Our traditional attire is our pride and our identity. Odisha’s handlooms are renowned globally. Our Sambalpuri, Sonpuri, Bomkai, Maniabandh, Kotpad handlooms and sarees, along with Khordha Lungi and Gamuchha, have gained popularity both within and outside the state.”
Majhi emphasized that the handloom garments of specific regions are deeply intertwined with their history. Through handlooms, the creative talents of weavers are preserved and passed down through generations.
He pointed out that wearing local handloom garments contributes to the economy of the state.
“As we celebrate Odia Pakhya, let us cultivate the habit of wearing handloom attire. Not just for today, but let’s wear handloom clothing every day to empower our weavers and enhance the rural economy, thereby contributing to a prosperous Odisha,” the Chief Minister stated.
Additionally, the Odisha Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department has sent a letter to all department heads and district collectors, urging them to motivate every government official, employee, and citizen to wear Odia handloom garments on April 3.
