Latest news with #OdishaTourism
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Time of India
Call for global promotion of Odia culture
Bhubaneswar: Following the recent unveiling of the Odisha Vision document, Odias living abroad have suggested that the state enhance promotion of heritage, tribal, temple and nature tourism to attract more international visitors. "Odisha Tourism should partner with foreign agencies to promote such tourism," said Akshaya Mahanty, a businessman from Rhode Island, US. They proposed leveraging Odias living in cities like London, New York, Bali, Bangkok, Sydney and Singapore to promote Odisha's culture and art forms. "Partnering with Indian embassies and diaspora communities can help identify and engage global influencers to authentically promote Rath Yatra, Bali Yatra, Dhanu Yatra and Khandagiri Mela abroad," said Saurav Choudhury, an IT professional in North Carolina, US. The Odia diaspora advocated for positioning the festivals as immersive cultural experiences rather than solely religious events. "Digital campaigns and documentaries on social media and OTT platforms, experiences through different apps will give foreigners a taste of our festivals before they visit," said Gayatri Panigrahi, a homemaker from the UK. They also recommended curated tourism packages, cultural camps and inviting foreigners to do crash courses in Odissi during winter months as well as yoga classes and beach huts to promote Odisha. "Safe and dedicated walking and bicycle lanes, particularly from Bhubaneswar to Puri, would attract European tourists, who enjoy walking and cycling," said Choudhury Rudra Charan Mohanty, environment programme coordinator, UN Centre for Regional Development. He further suggested the govt should explore the possibility of getting all significant festivals recognised by Unesco as 'Intangible Cultural Heritage', which would add to their prestige and draw international attention. Aditya Singh, a UK-based doctor, said important dates related to Rath Yatra, Bali Yatra, Dhanu Yatra and Khandagiri Mela should be announced well in advance for foreign tourists to plan their visits. "A small premium may be charged from people for VIP access to the festivals. Good quality accommodation and buses with guides should be arranged," he added.
Time of India
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Raja, celebrating nature and womanhood, begins
1 2 Bhubaneswar: In a vibrant display of cultural heritage and harmony, Raja festival commenced across the state on Saturday, painting the landscape with colours of tradition and joy. The three-day celebrations, deeply rooted in the state's cultural fabric, marks a unique celebration of Mother Earth's regenerative cycle. As the monsoon clouds gather, young girls adorned in new attire and intricate mehendi designs climb traditional swings, their laughter mixing with the breeze. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of freshly prepared pithas and special paan, as vendors across cities and villages set up elaborate stalls showcasing the seasonal delicacies. President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the festival's significance, emphasising its deep connection to agricultural traditions and natural cycles. "This celebration honours Mother Earth through traditional games like 'Doli' and 'Bagudi', accompanied by special preparations of 'Pithamitha' and refreshing 'pana'," she shared on social media, calling for environmental harmony. The festival's symbolism lies in its recognition of Mother Earth's regenerative pause — a time when the soil is believed to undergo its menstrual cycle, preparing for the upcoming agricultural season. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pinga-Pinga e HBP? Tome isso 1x ao dia se tem mais de 40 anos Portal Saúde do Homem Clique aqui Undo During the three days, farming activities cease completely, reflecting a deep respect for nature's rhythms. Young unmarried women, seen as embodiments of Mother Earth, get new clothes, cosmetics and festive treats, while being exempt from physical labour. CM Mohan Charan Majhi also greeted the people on the occasion. "Greetings and best wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Raja Parva, a unique tradition of honouring tradition, nature, and womanhood. May this festival bring joy and happiness to everyone's lives," he wrote on X. Communities across the state have embraced the festivities with enthusiasm, organising celebrations featuring traditional games and cultural activities. In Bhubaneswar, localities like Mancheswar, Nayapalli and others become hubs of festive activity, with people expressing their joy in participating in the unique celebration. Devasis Sarangi, a social media user, shared on X, "Raja — the world's only festival that destroys myths and shame around periods and celebrates womanhood! Rest, renewal, food, games and honouring Mother Earth. Let's break taboos and celebrate in style." Adding to the grandeur, Odisha Tourism has organised a special Raja Mahotsava at the Exhibition Ground here, featuring traditional swings, folk performances, pitha stalls and 'alta' art demonstrations. The event provided a platform for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the festival. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .
