Bhubaneswar, Mar 31: Odisha is gearing up to celebrate Odia Pakhya 2026 with great enthusiasm from April 1 to 14. The festival aims to highlight the state’s rich heritage, lifestyle, cuisine, folklore, and traditional attire on a global stage, informed Culture Minister Surjyabanshi Suraj.
Following its successful launch in 2025, Odia Pakhya has emerged as an important cultural initiative that seeks to weave Odisha’s traditions into everyday life. This year, various government departments will host a diverse range of events across all districts, including Bhubaneswar.
Each of the fourteen days will feature a distinct theme and set of activities. The celebrations will begin on April 1 with Odisha Day, organized by the Information & Public Relations Department.
April 2 will be observed as “Khadi Chhuan Day,” marking the formal initiation of young children into education. On April 3, people will celebrate Traditional Attire Day under the theme “Our Dress, Our Identity.” This will be followed on April 4 by awareness drives and rallies encouraging the use of the Odia language on nameplates.
A Heritage Run will take place near historical landmarks on April 5 to promote both fitness and cultural awareness, while April 6 will focus on cleanliness drives at temples and public spaces.
Children’s Story Day on April 7 will encourage storytelling and the preservation of folk traditions among young minds. A blood donation drive is planned for April 8, followed by the “Let’s Buy a Book” campaign on April 9 to promote reading habits.
Folk arts and artists will be celebrated on April 10, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional art forms. Youth participation will take center stage on April 11 through the Amrut Generation Program, aimed at nurturing creativity and innovation.
April 12, themed “Venerable Sons of Odisha,” will educate the younger generation about the state’s iconic personalities. On April 13, “Our Taste, Our Food Day” will showcase Odisha’s rich culinary traditions. The festival will conclude on April 14 with grand celebrations marking the Odia New Year.
To encourage widespread participation, the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture has launched a dedicated platform, “Odia Pakhya 2026.” Citizens can join via the website and mobile app to upload reels, selfies, and other content celebrating Odisha’s traditions, food, music, dance, and community life.
A quiz competition will also be organized, offering participants digital certificates and an opportunity to share their experiences online.
Emphasizing the festival’s deeper purpose, Minister Suraj stated that Odia Pakhya is more than just a government initiative—it is a chance for people to reconnect with their roots, celebrate their identity, and take pride in their language and culture. He urged organizations, youth groups, and citizens across Odisha to actively participate and embrace the spirit of “We are Odia.”
