A Confluence of Culture and Vision
The Rajo Utsav 2025, held at the Movenpick Hotel in Bur Dubai, was a dazzling celebration of Odia heritage. The event was an initiative of Shero Properties, a UAE-based real estate organization founded by Mr. Anil Das and Ms. Sheetal Joshi, in partnership with Odisha Women in Dubai (OWD). The evening was attended by an array of distinguished guests, including renowned Emirati businessman Dr. Bu Abdullah as Chief Guest and Dr. Chidatmika Khatua as the Guest of Honor. The cultural festivities were further enhanced by the presence of The Tribal Queen World 2025, Ms. Puja Lakra, international Odissi dance icon Guru Saswat Joshi, and celebrated Ollywood personalities Mr. Jeet Jagjit and Mr. Raj Mohapatro.
The Launch of OdiaRise
The centerpiece of the event was the official launch of "OdiaRise," a groundbreaking global platform with the theme “Rooted in Odisha, Growing Globally.” Unveiled by the founders of Shero Properties, this initiative aims to create a unified network for Odias around the world to foster collaboration, growth, and a stronger sense of identity.
“Shero Properties is now proudly connected with 21+ Odia communities across 20 countries," said Mr. Anil Das during the launch. "Odias are thriving globally – in senior leadership roles and as entrepreneurs. Through OdiaRise, we are creating a common thread to connect, empower, and uplift every Odia across the globe.” He added that every member of this new platform would be known as a "Riser," a term meant to symbolize progress, pride, and potential.
Adding a significant business dimension to the initiative, the evening also marked the announcement of a mega-collaboration between Danube Home and Shero Homes, a new venture under the OdiaRise umbrella. This strategic partnership is set to create new homeownership opportunities for Odias in the UAE and beyond, reinforcing the platform's commitment to tangible economic empowerment.
Voices of Support
The initiative received strong endorsements from the evening's special guests. Chief Guest Dr. Bu Abdullah praised the effort, stating, "What Shero Properties has done through Rajo Utsav and the Odia Rise platform is truly commendable. This is not just a cultural celebration, but a movement that brings a community together globally."
Guest of Honor Dr. Chidatmika Khatua shared this admiration, remarking that "Shero Properties is not only celebrating Odia identity but also creating a visionary path for Odia professionals and entrepreneurs to grow globally."
The cultural significance of the platform was highlighted by Guru Saswat Joshi. "As an ambassador of Odissi dance and Odisha’s cultural legacy, I am deeply moved by Shero Properties’ commitment to promoting classical dance and art," he said. "The Odia Rise platform is a true game changer. By connecting our global community, it opens new opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries from Odisha to thrive."
Ms. Rajeswari Sahu, a founding member of the collaborating organization Odisha Women in Dubai, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the support provided by Shero Properties. "Our vision has received not only encouragement but also the infrastructure to grow," she noted. "The partnership has enabled our women to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their roots while stepping confidently into global roles."
The event itself was a vibrant affair, featuring a rich lineup of cultural performances and traditional rituals celebrating womanhood and Odia customs. It provided an energetic networking environment for entrepreneurs, professionals, and families from the community. The organizers also extended special thanks to the Department of Language, Literature & Culture of the Government of Odisha for their cultural support, and to Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder Chairman of Danube Group, for his belief in the project.
The Rajo Utsav 2025 in Dubai successfully transcended the traditional role of a festival. It served as a powerful statement of intent, launching a platform that aims to harness the collective strength of the global Odia community. By intertwining cultural celebration with professional and economic opportunities, OdiaRise is poised to become a vital resource for a diaspora that is, as its slogan suggests, "rooted in Odisha, and growing globally."
