The 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 witnessed a mesmerising showcase of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage on its ninth day, as the state celebrated Odisha State Day with vibrant performances of traditional dances and music that captivated a global audience.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s presence added enthusiasm to the event, highlighting Odisha’s strides toward becoming a self-reliant and developed state under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In his address as the chief guest at the amphitheatre in Bharat Mandapam, CM Majhi emphasised the government’s commitment to preserving Odisha’s ancient culture and traditions while embracing progress and modernity for the holistic development of all sections of society. He called upon everyone to pledge toward building a ‘Viksit Odisha’ (Developed Odisha) by 2036, aligning with the national vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’ (One India, Best India). A vision document has been prepared to guide this transformation, focusing on sustainable growth.
CM Majhi noted that Odisha is emerging as a hub of immense potential, attracting industrialists and investors worldwide through initiatives like the Utkarsh Odisha: Make-in-Odisha Conclave. He highlighted the state’s pioneering role in becoming India’s first silicon semiconductor hub, which will bolster the economy and create new employment opportunities. Additionally, policies emphasise renewable energy production, extensive afforestation for environmental balance, and sustainable planning to leave a beautiful world for future generations.
The event was inaugurated by CM Majhi with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by the unveiling of special editions of the magazines *Utkal Prasanga* and *Odisha Review*. He also visited the Odisha Pavilion, interacting with stall officials, artisans, and weavers, encouraging them to uphold Odisha’s glorious past while transforming the state into a self-reliant entity.
The cultural program featured enchanting performances, including Odissi dance by artists from Bhubaneswar’s Nupur institution, the colourful animal mask dance by Bichitra Barnali Natya Sansad from Digapahandi (Ganjam), Sambalpuri dance by Rumkujhumar artists from Subarnapur, Singha Nrutya by Nutan Kala Sansad from Kandhamal district, and Ghumura dance by Brindaban Sanskrutik Anusthan from Kalahandi.
The ceremony was attended by MPs Pratap Sarangi, Niranjan Bishi, and Sujit Kumar; former MP Amar Patnaik; Odisha High Court Judge Justice Savitri Rath; Additional Chief Secretary of Industries and Information & Public Relations Hemant Sharma; Secretary of Odia Language, Literature & Culture Vijay Ketan Upadhyay; Principal Resident Commissioner in New Delhi Bishal Gagan; Special Resident Commissioner Ritu Arora; Director of Information & Public Relations Anuj Kumar Das Patnaik; Technical Director Gurvir Singh; and other senior officials.
This celebration not only promoted Odisha’s cultural diversity but also underscored its economic ambitions, positioning the state as a key player in India’s journey toward self-reliance.
