Odia Parba: A little Odisha near India Gate

A three-day festival to celebrate Odisha's culture, tradition, heritage and cuisine commenced here today in the lawns of the India Gate.
Chief Justice Dipak Mishra was the chief guest of the inaugural ceremony of Odia Parba which was also attended by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan among other eminent personalities.
The second edition of Odia Parba, which the organisers claim is bigger and better than previous year, is based on the theme Odisha's freedom struggle against British rule from 1804-1947'.
"I am quite delighted to be a part of Odia Parba yet again for its second edition. We have completed 200 years of Paika Rebellion and I am proud to say that I was born in Banipur which is quite famous for its Paika fighters.

"Let's come and celebrate this event at the national capital which is a platform to bring together Odias and showcase our rich culture and heritage," the CJI said.
The programmes lined up for the festival include those on fashion, culture, dance, handicrafts. Visitors are also being treated to the coastal state's mouth-watering delicacies.

One of the highlights is an innovative fort-shaped food-court, reflecting the ambience of 'Baarah Maasi Tera Parba', which reflects Odisha's passion for festivals in one calendar year.
"Through this festival we want to show the people of Delhi the rich culture and heritage of Odisha. People can now see glimpses of our culture through the handlooms like Sambalpuri saree, Kotpad saree etc. and mouth-watering dishes like Gupchup katki Chaat, Pitha etc," organiser of the event and president of the Odia Samaj Sidhartha Pradhan said.

Apart from these, there is also a painting competition for children and art workshops by famous Odia artists. Padma Shri awardee and renowned sculptor Sudharshan Sahoo will also be showcasing his intricate stone work in the gala fair.