The New Indian Express celebrated the remarkable achievements of 12 independent Odia women by conferring upon them the prestigious Devi Awards. These women, who excelled in various fields, were acknowledged for their impactful contributions to society. The awardees included individuals such as writer and educationist Susmita Bagchi, agriculture scientist Dr Swati Nayak, textile designer Pankaja Sethi, social worker Rosalin Patasani Mishra, educationist Dr Mona Lisa Bal, filmmaker Lipika Singh Darai, writer & weaver Sukanti Meher, Kendriya Sahitya Akademi award winner Dr Gayatribala Panda, Sabai craft artisan Ramita Singh, bureaucrat Aboli Sunil Naravane, and Belgadia Palace directors Mrinalika and Akshita Bhanj Deo.

The 25th edition of the Devi Awards took place at the Mayfair Convention in the city, where former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi presented the awards. The event featured a Chhau performance titled ‘The War Dance’ by young artists from Mayurbhanj and an engaging session between Kiran Bedi and author-journalist Kaveree Bamzai.