As part of the ongoing Odisha Parab celebrations in Ahmedabad, an engaging and heartfelt Odia Diaspora Meet was organised, bringing together members of the Odia community residing across Gujarat.
The session was graced by Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha Pravati Parida, along with Deepankar Mohaptra, IAS, Director, Dept of Tourism, Odisha; Deba Prasad Dash, Special Secretary, Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department, Government of Odisha; Maheshwar Sahu, IAS (Retired); and H.K. Dash, IAS (Retired), President of the Odia Socio Cultural Association of Ahmedabad and Chairman of the Gujarat State Environment Impact Assessment Authority.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy CM Pravati Parida highlighted the growing synergy between Odisha and Gujarat, emphasising the immense potential for collaboration across sectors such as culture, trade, tourism and community development. She elaborated that platforms like Odisha Parab go beyond being mere cultural showcases; they serve as vibrant spaces for strengthening cultural ties, fostering mutual understanding and exploring new avenues of cooperation between the people of the two States. Such initiatives help build lasting relationships that extend into social and economic domains as well.
The interaction witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Odia diaspora, who shared their experiences, journeys and enduring connection with their roots. Many expressed pride in witnessing Odisha’s rich culture, handlooms, cuisine and traditions being showcased on such a vibrant platform in Gujarat.
The meeting further reinforced the importance of community engagement in preserving cultural identity while embracing new opportunities. It served as a dynamic bridge for connecting people, ideas, and aspirations across regions.
Odisha Parab continues to witness a strong turnout, with people from Ahmedabad visiting in large numbers and appreciating the rich display of Odisha’s art, craft, cuisine, and tourism potential.
