Bhubaneswar, Mar 21: In a historic culinary achievement, the Odisha Tourism Department has secured a Guinness World Record for preparing the largest serving of fermented rice, popularly known as Pakhala, on the occasion of ‘Pakhala Divas’ on Friday. A massive 1,174 kg of the traditional dish was prepared and presented in a single vessel, marking a global milestone for Odisha’s rich food heritage.

“This remarkable feat not only celebrates Odisha’s culinary traditions but also brings international recognition to Pakhala, an iconic dish deeply embedded in the state’s culture and daily life,” the Tourism Department said in an official statement. The department added that the achievement highlights Odisha’s indigenous food culture on the global map, showcasing how Pakhala Bhat has evolved from a humble local staple to a symbol of cultural pride with worldwide relevance.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi shared his excitement on his official X account, stating, “With an unprecedented 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel, this historic achievement brings global recognition to Pakhala, one of Odisha’s most cherished traditional dishes, deeply rooted in our culture and daily life.” He added, “This accomplishment reflects our commitment to promoting Odisha’s rich culinary heritage on the world stage. It is a proud moment for every Odia, as we take our timeless traditions from local to global, strengthening Odisha’s identity as a hub of cultural and gastronomic excellence.”

The state-level “Pakhala Paraba (Festival)” was organised at Panthanivas in Bhubaneswar, aiming to enhance the popularity of this traditional summer delicacy. Before the programme officially began, the Chief Minister visited the Odia Food Festival at Panthanivas, appreciating nearly 326 varieties of Odia dishes, and also partook in Pakhala along with dignitaries present.

For the Guinness World Record attempt, the Tourism Department prepared 1,174 kg of Pakhala using 850 kg of rice, drawing widespread attention. The dish was then distributed to over 2,000 people from underprivileged communities.

Highlighting the cultural significance of the festival, Chief Minister Majhi said, “In a rapidly changing world, it is essential to move forward while staying connected to our roots. Pakhala Day has become an integral part of the state government’s vision for a ‘Viksit Odisha’. Our aim is to advance firmly towards modernity while preserving our rich cultural heritage.”