Odisha is beaming with pride as Samarjeet Chakra, a talented martial artist from the state, secures his place in the Indian team for the prestigious World Taekwondo Poomsae Championship 2024. The championship is set to be held in Hong Kong from November 30 to December 4, 2024, bringing together the world’s best taekwondo athletes for a thrilling competition.

Samarjeet’s selection is a testament to his dedication and skill in taekwondo, a discipline that requires precision, technique, and artistry. Competing in the Poomsae category, which emphasizes the perfection of forms and movements, Samarjeet will represent India on an international stage alongside the country’s finest martial artists. His journey is an inspiration for young athletes in Odisha and across India.

The Indian team for the championship comprises nine men and eight women, selected after rigorous trials. This diverse and skilled group of athletes will aim to bring laurels to the nation by competing against world-class opponents in Hong Kong.

The renowned Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP), located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha, has enriched its animal and bird collection by acquiring 11 new species from the Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad, under a carefully planned animal exchange programme. This initiative, approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), aims to enhance biodiversity and provide new attractions for visitors while promoting conservation efforts.

A dedicated 17-member team from Hyderabad transported the animals and birds to Nandankanan, ensuring their safe arrival. The new inmates at the Nandankanan included two sarus cranes, two spoonbills, two grey jungle fowls, two iguanas, two barbary doves, four hog deer, two mouse deer, two red sand boas, two common sand boas, two bonnet macaques and two Russell’s vipers.

These additions are expected to enhance the zoo’s appeal, providing visitors with a chance to witness a more diverse array of animals and birds, while also contributing to the conservation of these species. In exchange, the Nandankanan Zoo gave five species of animals and birds to the Hyderabad zoo. Those included three Siamese crocodiles, four golden pheasants, two Lady Amherst’s pheasants, two hog deer and two mouse deer.

This reciprocal exchange underlines the collaborative efforts of Indian zoos in promoting genetic diversity, ensuring sustainable breeding, and supporting the conservation of vulnerable species. The animal exchange programme is being carried out in phases. In the second phase, Nandankanan Zoo is set to receive two female bonnet macaques from Hyderabad in exchange for four Asian open-bill storks and four Assamese macaques. This phased approach ensures a systematic and stress-free relocation for the animals.

Nandankanan Zoological Park, a leading zoo in India, continues to focus on wildlife conservation, education, and visitor engagement. With the arrival of these new species, the zoo aims to further its mission of protecting endangered species and fostering public awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.

The 7th edition of Odisha Parba 2024, a spectacular celebration of Odisha’s timeless heritage, concluded in Delhi with grandeur, leaving an unforgettable impression on the capital’s cultural landscape. This three-day festival brought to life Odisha’s artistic brilliance, vibrant traditions, and innovative spirit through a seamless blend of performances, panel discussions, and entrepreneurial showcases.

The festival garnered attention from eminent dignitaries. Union Minister of Railways and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, eloquently emphasized the richness of the Odia language, referring to it as a divine gift from Lord Jagannath, while applauding Odisha’s advancements in semiconductor technology and innovation.

Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, shed light on Odisha’s contributions to building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). He highlighted the role of Odisha’s youth in leading startup ventures and safeguarding the state’s cultural heritage, fostered by the Odisha Samaj’s disciplined efforts.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt appreciation for Odisha Parba, describing it as a “beacon of India’s cultural depth” that unites the nation. Celebrating Odisha’s illustrious history, PM Modi lauded figures such as Dasia Bauri, Salabega, and Jagannath Das, and invoked the profound words of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi: “Mo Jivana Pache Narke Padithau, Jagata Uddhara Heu” (May my life go to hell if it helps save the world). The Prime Minister also highlighted Odisha’s maritime heritage, rich textiles, Odissi dance, and seafood as global symbols of its cultural wealth.

The festival spotlighted Odisha’s pivotal role in India’s independence movement through the thought-provoking conclave “Saga of Freedom Struggle in Odisha.” Moderated by Prof. Chandi Prasad Nanda, the session featured scholars like Prof. Byomkesh Tripathy, Dr. Bibhudatta Pramod Kumar Mishra, and Dr. Chandra Shekhar Hota. Together, they delved into untold stories of sacrifice and resilience, leaving the audience deeply inspired by the state’s freedom fighters.

A highlight of Odisha Parba 2024 was the entrepreneurial spirit showcased by 35 innovative startups, which presented transformative ideas across diverse sectors. This exhibition reflected the state’s thriving startup ecosystem and the determination of its youth to bridge tradition with modern solutions, positioning Odisha as a hub for innovation.

Art, Dance, and Music: A Cultural Extravaganza
The festival featured a medley of mesmerizing performances that transported audiences to the heart of Odisha. Key highlights included:

• “Suta Anuraga,” an enchanting Odissi dance performance by Padma Shri Guru Ileana Citaristi and her troupe, narrating the dedication of Odisha’s master weavers.
• “Soul in Motion,” blending martial arts with folk traditions.
• “Jeevan Dhara,” a vibrant folk dance celebrating Odisha’s indigenous roots by Kala O Kalakar.
• “Prakriti Pravaah,” a Chhau dance performance by Badjabani Chhau Nrutya Prashthan, capturing the essence of nature.
• “Abhibyakti,” an emotional and expressive piece by Moksha, from Cuttack.
• “Kala Shakti,” a Paika fusion performance that brought Odisha’s valor and tradition to life.
• The grand finale, “Swaranjali,” led by renowned singers Shri Swayam Padhi and Shri Bishnumohan Kabi, celebrated Odisha’s musical heritage with melodious symphonies, leaving the audience spellbound.

In his inspiring welcome address, Siddharth Pradhan, President of Odisha Samaj, reflected on Odisha Parba as a living testament to the state’s immense heritage and cultural identity. The event united generations, blending traditional art forms with modern aspirations.

As Odisha Parba 2024 concludes on a high note, its journey is far from over. The festival promises to return with even greater vibrancy, continuing to elevate Odisha’s traditions on a global platform. With its harmonious blend of history, innovation, and cultural richness, Odisha Parba has set a benchmark, connecting the past and the future of this remarkable state.