It was a memorable evening for the Odias settled in the city who got an opportunity to reunite, enjoy cultural programme and relish traditional dishes of Odisha.
A series of cultural programmes were conducted separately by Utkal Sanskrutika Samaj at Jagannath temple complex, Daspalla Hills and Utkalika Cultural Association at Ukkunagaram on April 1, Odisha Formation Day.
This year’s celebration was special as it was 80th year commemorating the formation of Odisha under British India in 1936 providing a separate province to Odia-speaking people. Earlier, Odisha was part of Bihar. Rich tributes were paid traditionally to the founding fathers Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das and Utkala Gauraba Madhusudan Das and Utkal Sammilani, which championed the cause of formation of Odisha.
“Odisha has a rich history even before its formation,” says RINL Director (Commercial) T.K. Chand. Odisha is derived from Sanskrit word Odra Desa or Odra Vishaya. In Pali, it is referred as Oddaka. Odia language has a rich history. Ancient kingdom of Kalinga was invaded by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in 261 BC leading to Kalinga War. Sarala Das translated Mahabharata into Oriya in 15th century. “Odisha has rich cultural heritage and architecture. Celebration of formation day and other important occasions help Odias working in Visakhapatnam stay in touch and uphold their traditions and values.” .
The action-packed cultural extravaganza at both the events began with the patriotic song ‘Bande Utkala Janani’. Odias, known for their passion for food, had a gala time at Daspalla Hills by relishing various popular street food dishes served by the members at a food fest. Dahibara and Aloo dum , Aloo chop-Ghuguni, Pakudi-Tarkari were an instant hit. There was lot of demand for popular combination food of Puri such as Chudaghasha and Dalma and authentic Pitha like Chenna Kakara and Poda pitha.
A dance troupe from Usha Patnaik’s Mahendra Kala Academy entertained the audience with folk dances. Rongobati song was well acclaimed. The cultural fiesta organised by Utkalika Cultural Association started with a mesmerising classical dance to the tune of a famous song “Na ja Radhika..Eka Eka.” A dance drama “Alo Alo Manika” from a famous Odia cinema Sesha Sravana was presented by Riyan, Ohm and Manali, the tiny kids from class-1.
The highlight of the function was a social drama ‘Nidram Dehi’ conceptualised by city-based noted writer-cum-director R.P. Sahoo, Earlier, various competitions like painting by kids, jhoti by the ladies and Odia extempore were arranged to mark the occasion.
