New Delhi, June 9: Members of the Pravasi Odia Vikas Samiti (POVS) gathered in high spirits at the Bharatiya Jansanchar Sansthan Auditorium to mark the 12th Pravasi Odia Diwas and Bisuba Milana. The vibrant celebration showcased the rich cultural traditions of Odisha and honoured the contributions of Odia expatriates across various fields.
Attendees were treated to traditional Odia food and beverages, including the seasonal drink pana. Cultural performances featured graceful Odissi and energetic Sambalpuri dance presentations, drawing applause from the audience and reflecting the state’s diverse heritage.
The event’s guest of honour, Suresh Jain, National Organising Secretary of POVS, emphasized the significance of Odisha’s cultural legacy in nation-building. “If we wish to see Odisha emerge as a unique model of Vishwaguru Bharat, it is essential to protect its cultural identity and spiritual values,” he remarked. He lauded the role of POVS in preserving and promoting Odia culture among the diaspora.
POVS President Surya Narayan Mishra commended the global contributions of the Odia community, referencing the achievements of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as a prominent example. Vice-President Chinmay Mohanty paid tribute to historical figures such as Baji Rout and Dharmapada, symbolizing the enduring spirit and sacrifice of the Odia people.
In recognition of outstanding contributions, the organisation presented the Pravasi Odia Samman awards. Notable recipients included Rashmi Ranjan Swain, former Director General of Police (DGP) of Jammu and Kashmir. The Pravasi Odia Ratna Award was conferred on Debashish Satpathy, Chief General Manager of NBCC, and artist Kanhu Behera.
Other honourees included Dr. Vishnu Prasad Panigrahi, who received the Pravasi Arogya Gaurav Samman, and environmentalist Pradeep Kumar Das, awarded the Pravasi Sabuj Samman for his work in sustainability.
The annual POVS magazine, edited by Dr. Sailendra Swain, was officially released during the programme. The celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Priyadarshi Bala, Joint General Secretary of POVS.
Key contributors to the successful organisation of the event included Susanta Mohapatra, Piyush Mohapatra, Malaya Pradhan, and Santosh Rout, along with several dedicated volunteers.
The event not only celebrated cultural pride but also reinforced the role of the Odia diaspora in shaping India’s future through unity, heritage, and service.
