Tuhina Sahoo
Bhubaneswar, Nov 6: The Subhadra Shakti Mela 2025, currently taking place at Unit-3 Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar, is more than just a mela; it's a vibrant showcase of Odisha’s culinary traditions and a powerful platform for women's empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Running from November 1 to November 12, 2025, this festival has become an important event, attracting food lovers and supporters of rural women entrepreneurs from across the state.
The festival features over 300 Self Help Groups (SHGs) from Odisha and 11 other states, each representing the rich and diverse flavors of Odisha's traditional cuisine. SHG members, mostly rural women, are at the heart of the event, reviving ancient recipes and serving them with pride. This year, the festival runs daily from 11 am to 9 pm, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
Visitors to the festival are welcomed with the irresistible aroma of traditional Odia snacks and sweets that evoke nostalgia. The menu is filled with iconic dishes like Dahibara Aloodum, the sweet Chenapoda, Millet Laddos, and Millet Noodles, alongside Rasabali and Malpua-sweet delights that have been enjoyed for generations. At live pitha counters, you can see fresh Chakuli, Chaul Bara, and Bara Aloo Dum being prepared, served with traditional chutneys and curries.
The pithas like Chakuli Pitha, Sija Pitha, Chandrakanti, Arisa Pitha, and Kakara are the festival’s stars, alongside savory dishes like Mudhi Mutton and Patrapoda. These dishes are made with care, following age-old recipes passed down through generations.
What truly makes the Subhadra Shakti Mela special is the role of women. The SHG members managing the stalls are not just cooks and makes they are entrepreneurs, cultural ambassadors, and leaders in their communities. They are keeping traditional cooking methods alive while also earning a livelihood and gaining financial independence. By serving each dish, they are not only preserving culinary heritage but also making a name for themselves in the state’s growing food industry.
One of the SHG members from Huma Dhama, shared her experience: “This festival has given me an amazing opportunity to showcase my cooking. I feel proud to represent our culture and provide for my family while doing what I love.”
While the festival celebrates Odia traditions, it also holds modern health trends. Many of the dishes feature nutritious ingredients like millets, turmeric, ginger, and whole garam masala-all climate-smart and health-conscious choices. Millet-based cookies, fusion bakes, and health drinks have been especially popular with visitors looking for healthier options. Rashmi Mohanty said “This festival takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The flavors are so authentic and nostalgic.”
“We’ve focused on using locally sourced ingredients to ensure the food is not only delicious but also good for your health,” says another SHG member. “Millets are an ancient superfood, and we’re excited to share their benefits with everyone.”
This festival is not only a celebration of food but also a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit of women in Odisha. The SHG members are turning their kitchens into businesses, learning new skills, and becoming role models for other women. The festival is offering them a unique opportunity to gain visibility, increase sales, and build lasting relationships with customers.
Local visitors like Subham Parida from Bhubaneswar are thrilled with the festival’s impact: “I love the idea of supporting these women and their businesses while enjoying authentic Odia food. It’s a win-win!”
As the event nears its end on November 12, the festival has become a significant cultural and economic platform. The stalls continue to buzz with activity as both locals and tourists flock to the venue to enjoy traditional Odia dishes and support the SHG entrepreneurs.
Special highlights:
-Handloom and Handicraft Show: First-time fashion show featuring creations by SHGs, blending traditional arts with modern fashion formats.
-50 Food Stalls: Focusing on millet-based healthy foods and traditional Odia dishes, reflecting the fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary trends.
-Cultural Programs: Every evening, visitors can enjoy performances of Odissi, Chhau, Folk Drama, Mallakhamb, Gotipua, Sambalpuri dance, and more. These performances enrich the festival experience, making it more than just a food fair.
