From Int'l Odissi Dance Festival to Adivasi Mela, Odisha brings cultural richness to Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

In light of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the Odisha government is leaving no stone unturned in extending a warm welcome to non-resident Indians through a series of meticulously curated events and programmes. These initiatives are aimed at showcasing and promoting Odisha’s rich art, culture, and traditions.

The mega event will commence on Wednesday in Bhubaneswar and continue till Jan 10.

At Ekamra Park, a five-day flower exhibition promises to captivate visitors with a stunning array of blossoms. The highlight of the event is the Cactus House, anticipated to be a major attraction for non-resident Indians (NRIs). Meanwhile, the Park Festival has commenced in Bhubaneswar, featuring mesmerizing music fountains and laser shows across various parks. These activities provide a unique platform to celebrate Odisha's artistic heritage while showcasing the state's traditions to educate and engage the visiting NRIs.

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To enhance efforts in showcasing the state’s culture and traditions, the Odisha State Museum has extended its operating hours until 9 PM. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi inaugurated nine new galleries, including the Odisha Ivory Gallery, Zoology, Geology and Mining, Odisha Tribal, and Handloom galleries. These additions provide visitors with an immersive experience, offering a deeper insight into the state’s diverse cultural heritage.

To ensure seamless mobility for attendees, the Chief Minister has also launched an e-bus service comprising 5 double-decker buses, 10 hop-on-hop-off buses, and 25 buses operated by the Puri Srimandir administration.

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Besides, celebrations to continue with the Rajarani Music Festival at the Rajarani Temple, the Mukteswar Dance Festival 2025 at the Mukteswar Temple, and the Folk Dance Festival at the state museum, all running until January 11. The Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival will include solo, duet, and group performances by eminent Odissi dancers, while the Rajarani Music Festival will feature Hindustani, Carnatic, and Odissi music recitals.

While the International Odissi Dance Festival will take place at Rabindra Mandap, the Rajarani Music Festival will be held on the premises of the Rajarani Temple and the Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival will be organised at the Mukteswar Temple premises.

State Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Monday said, "Classical dance and music are integral to our cultural identity and heritage. The Rajarani Music Festival, Mukteswar Odissi Dance Festival and International Odissi Dance Festival are being organised to showcase our rich cultural legacy. These festivals will coincide with the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations in the city, providing an opportunity for guests from across the country and abroad to experience the grandeur of our classical art forms."

Similarly, at the Exhibition Ground, the Tribal Fair is set to draw attention to the unique art, culture, and traditions of tribal communities from Odisha and educate attendees about their life, culture, and traditions.

Through these initiatives, the Odisha government is not just welcoming NRIs but also weaving a cultural tapestry that proudly reflects the state’s heritage.