The Odisha government has officially urged Odia organizations in at least 22 countries to celebrate Pakhala Dibasa on March 20 with great enthusiasm to promote Odisha’s quintessential dish on a global platform. In a letter addressed to the presidents and secretaries of various Odia organizations across the world, Bijay Ketan Upadhayay, Director of Culture and Odisha Paribar, emphasized the importance of the occasion. He stated that Pakhala Dibasa is celebrated annually in Odisha and has become a significant event that showcases the state’s rich food culture.
The letter has been sent to Odia associations in 22 countries, urging them to actively participate in the celebration. These countries include the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Abu Dhabi, United Kingdom, West Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Pakhala is deeply rooted in Odia culture and is considered a symbol of Odisha’s rich culinary heritage. The government’s appeal highlights how Odias living abroad can play a crucial role in putting this unique dish on the global food map by celebrating Pakhala Dibasa in a grand way. The government has encouraged these organizations not only to organize celebrations but also to share photos and videos of their events on social media platforms, tagging relevant Odisha government departments. This will help in increasing the global visibility of the event and promoting Odisha’s traditional cuisine worldwide.
Pakhala Dibasa, observed on March 20 every year since 2015, celebrates Pakhala, a fermented rice dish that is widely consumed across Odisha, especially in summer. It is known for its cooling effect, making it a perfect remedy to beat the scorching heat. The dish is typically enjoyed with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian side dishes, such as fried or mashed vegetables, saga bhaja (stir-fried greens), fish fry, and curd-based accompaniments.
Pakhala Dibasa is significant as it helps preserve Odisha’s food culture by ensuring that the legacy of this traditional dish is passed on to future generations. By encouraging celebrations worldwide, Odisha aims to bring its regional flavors to international attention, strengthening the cultural identity of Odias living abroad. The event fosters a sense of unity among Odia communities across different nations, reinforcing their connection to their roots. Additionally, promoting traditional Odia dishes like Pakhala can boost food tourism in Odisha, attracting visitors eager to explore authentic regional flavors.
With the Odisha government actively promoting Pakhala Dibasa 2025 and urging global participation, this traditional dish is set to gain greater recognition beyond India. By sharing their celebrations on social media, Odias worldwide can contribute to preserving and popularizing this timeless culinary delight. As March 20 approaches, Odisha and its diaspora prepare to celebrate their beloved Pakhala in a truly international spirit!
The Odisha government has officially urged Odia organizations in at least 22 countries to celebrate Pakhala Dibasa on March 20 with great enthusiasm to promote Odisha’s quintessential dish on a global platform. In a letter addressed to the presidents and secretaries of various Odia organizations across the world, Bijay Ketan Upadhayay, Director of Culture and Odisha Paribar, emphasized the importance of the occasion. He stated that Pakhala Dibasa is celebrated annually in Odisha and has become a significant event that showcases the state’s rich food culture.
The letter has been sent to Odia associations in 22 countries, urging them to actively participate in the celebration. These countries include the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Abu Dhabi, United Kingdom, West Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Pakhala is deeply rooted in Odia culture and is considered a symbol of Odisha’s rich culinary heritage. The government’s appeal highlights how Odias living abroad can play a crucial role in putting this unique dish on the global food map by celebrating Pakhala Dibasa in a grand way. The government has encouraged these organizations not only to organize celebrations but also to share photos and videos of their events on social media platforms, tagging relevant Odisha government departments. This will help in increasing the global visibility of the event and promoting Odisha’s traditional cuisine worldwide.
Pakhala Dibasa, observed on March 20 every year since 2015, celebrates Pakhala, a fermented rice dish that is widely consumed across Odisha, especially in summer. It is known for its cooling effect, making it a perfect remedy to beat the scorching heat. The dish is typically enjoyed with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian side dishes, such as fried or mashed vegetables, saga bhaja (stir-fried greens), fish fry, and curd-based accompaniments.
Pakhala Dibasa is significant as it helps preserve Odisha’s food culture by ensuring that the legacy of this traditional dish is passed on to future generations. By encouraging celebrations worldwide, Odisha aims to bring its regional flavors to international attention, strengthening the cultural identity of Odias living abroad. The event fosters a sense of unity among Odia communities across different nations, reinforcing their connection to their roots. Additionally, promoting traditional Odia dishes like Pakhala can boost food tourism in Odisha, attracting visitors eager to explore authentic regional flavors.
With the Odisha government actively promoting Pakhala Dibasa 2025 and urging global participation, this traditional dish is set to gain greater recognition beyond India. By sharing their celebrations on social media, Odias worldwide can contribute to preserving and popularizing this timeless culinary delight. As March 20 approaches, Odisha and its diaspora prepare to celebrate their beloved Pakhala in a truly international spirit!
