Bhubaneswar, March 31 The Odisha Assembly passed a resolution on Tuesday to observe Odia Pakhya, a 14-day cultural festival, across the state starting from April 1.
The initiative aims to reconnect people with Odisha's rich cultural heritage and traditions during the fortnight, said Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Odia Language, Literature, and Culture.
The resolution was moved in the Assembly by Suraj and adopted by the House.
He said that the state government introduced Odia Pakhya celebrations in 2025, which is being celebrated with greater grandeur.
“Odia Pakhya is not just a government program, but a collective effort to celebrate the Odia language, literature, food, traditions, attire, and lifestyle,” the minister said.
He informed the House that the celebrations will begin on April 1 with the observance of "Odisha Divas," organized by the Information and Public Relations Department, followed by "Khadi Chuan Day" on April 2 by the School and Mass Education Department for children enrolling in pre-primary and Class I.
The Handloom, Textiles and Handicrafts Department will observe "Ama Poshak Ama Parichaya Day" (my dress, my identity) on April 3, which will promote traditional attire.
On April 4, an awareness march titled "Odia Nameplate Campaign" will be organized by the Odisha Labour Department to encourage the use of the Odia language in signboards, he said.
According to the proposal, a heritage run will be conducted on April 5 near historical sites across the state to promote heritage awareness and the Fit India–Fit Odisha initiative.
The events that will be held in the following days include a cleanliness drive across temples, a blood donation drive, a "buy a book" campaign, a celebration of folk art, and an awareness drive on the lives of iconic characters.
The celebrations will conclude on April 14 with the grand observance of the Odia New Year across the state, the minister said.