A high-level review meeting of the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department was held today at the conference hall of the Culture Department, chaired by Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.
During the meeting, an extensive review of preparations for Kataka’s historic Bali Yatra was conducted. The historic fair will be held in Kataka from November 24 to December 1, 2026. The state government has proposed a financial grant of Rs 10 crore for this year’s event. A major decision was made to ensure Bali Yatra will be completely plastic-free this year.
The Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) will set up 500 stalls, highlighting Odisha’s rich handloom and handicraft products at prominent locations across the Bali Yatra ground. Two dedicated stages will be erected for cultural performances. A delegation from Bali, Indonesia, is also expected to attend this year’s celebrations.
Additionally, the ‘Kataka-in-Kataka’ pavilion will showcase the ancient cultural ties between Kalinga and Bali. Parallels in language, food, attire, palm leaf manuscripts, and Bali’s traditional Lontar will be exhibited alongside a digital information wall.
Minister Suraj also reviewed the preparations for the upcoming State Book Festival in Bhubaneswar, scheduled to take place from December 4 to December 14, 2026. He suggested setting up pavilions themed around the life of Emperor Kapilendra Deb, Vande Mataram, and Gyan Bharatams. The meeting also covered plans for children’s literature zones, ‘Meet the Author’ corners, quiz competitions, and open mic sessions.
Furthermore, the minister evaluated the progress of several key ongoing infrastructure projects under the department. He directed IDCO officials to expedite the completion of the Kalamandala project. Reviews were also conducted regarding the construction of the auditorium at Utkal University of Culture, the renovation of classrooms and the auditorium at Kala Vikash Kendra, and progress on the Bakulabana development project.
Updates were provided on land identification for a modern museum in the state capital and the Sri Jagannath Interpretation Centre & Museum in Puri, as well as the renovation of Bhanja Kala Mandap. Minister Suraj also reviewed the setup of the Regional Campus of the National School of Drama (NSD), the Baraputra Heritage Village Scheme, and the installation of statues honoring Odisha’s legendary figures.
Minister Suraj instructed officials to ensure all departmental projects are completed strictly within their target timelines.
The meeting was attended by Culture Department Secretary Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyaya, Cuttack Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, senior officials from IDCO and OBCC, along with other high-ranking departmental dignitaries.
