Bhubaneswar: The ongoing Odisha Parba has offered a cultural treat for residents of New Delhi.
The three-day expo of Odisha culture at the India Gate lawns that began on Friday is a celebration of the state's tradition, heritage and cuisine. The expo will also showcase the rich heritage, history and valour of Odisha's bravehearts.
Chief Justice of India Justice Dipak Misra inaugurated the event. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan was also present at the inaugural event.
Speaking on the occasion, Justice Misra said: "I am delighted to be a part of the event yet again in its second edition. We have completed 200 years of the Paika rebellion and I am proud to say that I was born in Banipur, which is quite famous for its Paika fighters. The event should act as a platform to bring together Odias and showcase our rich culture and heritage."
Top names from the Odia entertainment industry enthralled the audience. Guru Chandrakanta Sutar and disciples presented Chota Mora Gaanti - a dance performance. Pancha Paika dance by Pravat Kumar Swain and group took the viewers through the journey of valour and sacrifices made by the state's warrior clans against British oppression.
Stand-up comedian Kuna Tripathy kept everyone in splits with his quick wit. Ghumura and Naga Nacha by Adi Sanskriti added colour and zest to the evening. Contemporary and Sambalpuri songs by Abhijit Majumdar, Preetinanda and others added to the evening's entertainment quotient with popular numbers and high energy.
A coffee-table book - Valour in the Veins: The Saga of the Indomitable Spirit of Odisha - was also launched.
Odia Samaj president Sidhartha Pradhan said: "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 handlooms productssuch as Sambalpuri and Kotpad sari and mouth-watering dishes."
This year, a painting competition for children below 18 years was also held on the "Spirit of Odisha" theme.
Sculpture gallery by Sudarshan Sahoo, a fine art demonstration workshop, live demos by renowned Odia artists, sale and display of artefacts and exquisite handloom products, Odia delicacies, folk dances and music shows are some aspects of the mega event.
Visitors to the event on Saturday witnessed a fashion show conceptualised by Sunil Sethi, Fashion Design Council of India president. It showcased the beautiful handlooms of Odisha in an innovative and contemporary style.
The entry gate designed in the shape of Dola Bimana replicates a common sight in Odisha during Holi. Intricate patta chitra design has added colour to the decor. A grand stage set up with backdrop of historic Barabati Fort has evoked memories of Odisha's glorious past.#This year, the entire food court has been designed in a fort style, reflecting the ambience of Baarah Maasi Tera Parba - Odisha's passion for festivals in one calendar year.
