Pravati Parida inaugurates Odisha Parab—unveiling a vibrant canvas where Odisha’s heritage meets its growth story in Ahmedabad. – NE photo
- Three-day cultural showcase brings Odisha’s heritage, cuisine and tourism to Gujarat
- From Odissi to Chhena Poda—Ahmedabad tastes, sees and feels Odisha under one roof
- GI-tag crafts, live artisan demos and handlooms spotlight the State’s creative legacy
- PM Modi’s video address highlights coastline, culture and tourism potential
- Cultural bridge strengthens Odisha–Gujarat ties while pitching growth and opportunities
R MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, MAR 21
In a grand celebration of heritage and hospitality, Odisha Parab Ahmedabad 2026 has transformed the Gujarat University Convention and Exhibition Centre into a vibrant showcase of culture, cuisine, crafts and tourism from Odisha, drawing enthusiastic crowds in Ahmedabad.
Inaugurating the three-day festival, Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida underscored Odisha’s dual narrative of tradition and transformation:
“Odisha is not just a destination—it is an experience of timeless traditions, vibrant culture and soulful cuisine. Through Odisha Parab, we invite people of Gujarat to come, explore and connect with the spirit of Odisha.”
“Through Odisha Parab, we want to share not only the vibrant culture but also our story of progress, a story of how Odisha honours its roots while moving forward with confidence and creativity. Odisha today is a State of opportunities, rich in heritage, strong in values, and vibrant in growth.”
Adding national momentum, Narendra Modi, in a videographed address, pitched strongly for Odisha’s tourism strengths: “Odisha’s over 500-km coastline, rich culture and diverse heritage make it a unique destination for travellers across India and the world. Platforms like Odisha Parab help take this legacy to every corner of the country.”
Organised by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture, along with ORMAS, ADISHA and Mission Shakti, the event is part of Odisha’s strategic national outreach to position itself as a culture-rich, experience-driven destination.
Highlighting the immersive nature of the event, Deepankar Mohapatra, Director, Tourism, said: “Odisha Parab is designed as an immersive platform that brings together our diverse cultural expressions, crafts, cuisine and tourism offerings. Ahmedabad is an important cultural and economic centre, and we are delighted to present Odisha’s unique experiences here.”
From live craft demonstrations by master artisans to curated stalls showcasing GI-tagged handlooms and handicrafts, the festival offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness and engage with Odisha’s living traditions.
Providing a broader perspective on the initiative, Balwant Sinha, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism noted:
“Odisha Parab is our endeavour to showcase the State’s vibrant culture, traditions, and tourism potential to a wider national audience. Through this initiative, we aim to deepen Odisha’s cultural connect and highlight the unique experiences that make our State a leading destination for travellers, adventure lovers, investors, and culture enthusiasts.”
The culinary segment is equally compelling, offering authentic flavours ranging from coastal delicacies to tribal cuisines, alongside iconic sweets like Chhena Poda, giving visitors a true taste of Odisha.
Cultural evenings feature captivating performances—Odissi, Gotipua, Sambalpuri, Paika Akhada, Ghumura, Dhemsa, Chhau and Ghuduki—bringing alive Odisha’s rhythm, storytelling and martial traditions.
Complementing the festivities are tourism outreach sessions and B2B engagements, aimed at strengthening partnerships with western India’s travel trade and boosting visitor interest.
More than a festival, Odisha Parab stands as a cultural bridge and growth narrative, showcasing a State that celebrates its roots while confidently stepping into the future.
