Bhubaneswar, Ap 2: The 21st edition of the renowned Srestha Odiani competition began with a grand opening ceremony at Ekamra Haat, celebrating Odia pride and culture. The event featured a wide array of cultural contests, including traditional attire displays, conch blowing, painting, and a writing contest for children and teenagers, all aimed at promoting the Odia language, culture, and heritage.

The inauguration ceremony saw several distinguished guests in attendance, such as Dr. Devi Prasanna Pattnaik, former Union Minister Braja Kishore Tripathy, esteemed historian Dr. Amiya Kumar Mohanty, and Rita Shankhu, the recipient of the 2025 Best Odia Woman Award. Other notable figures included Smruti Mohanty, a trustee of Sambhavana, and Sudarshan Das, the president of the event.

The competition was chaired by Sharatchandra Bhadra, President of Sambhavana.

The event showcased a vibrant display of Odia culture, highlighting the state's rich traditions while nurturing the creative talents of women from various generations.