Puri, May 17: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Sunday inaugurated the Nimapara Patha Utsav 2026 in Nimapara.

As part of the Patha Utsav, activities like solo acting, street plays, Pala, and Dasakathia were performed to spread public awareness on various issues.

Parida, who also holds the Women and Child Development and Tourism portfolio, said that traditional folk arts, including tribal dances, horse dances, and Sankirtan, represented the Odia identity in the event.

Taking to ‘X’, Parida said, “Today, I participated in the 'Nimapara Patha Utsav 2026' programme organised at Nimapara. I witnessed solo acting, street plays, Pala, and Dasakathia performed by students and local artists to spread public awareness. In this programme, tribal dances, horse dances, and Sankirtan, among other traditional folk arts, have represented our Odia identity. I extend my thanks to the residents of Nimapara who joined this festival with great enthusiasm.”

Additionally, the jersey, cap, medal, and mascot 'Utkarsha Ghoda' of 'Utkarsha Nimapara 2.0' were unveiled during the event by the Deputy Chief Minister.

Parida also annoncued that marathons and several other activites like music, debate and dance competitions like will be held in Nimapara and Gop areas in order to provide a platform to students and youth to showcase their inherent talents. 

“Marathons will be organised in both Nimapara and Gop areas in the coming days. Sports, music, and dance competitions, along with a university-level 'Debate on Development,' will also be hosted under the 'Nimapara Patha Utsav 2026' initiative,” said Parida, who represents Nimapara Assembly constituency.

The Deputy Chief Minister also requested people, particularly students to participate all these competitions, debates, and 'Utkarsha Nimapara 2.0' as volunteers by registering themselves through https://utkarshanimapara.org.