30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Culture & community spirit unite in UAE celebrations
Bhubaneswar: Rath Yatra in Dubai, organised by the Odisha Samaj UAE (OSUAE), was held for the 15th year with the participation of 500 Odias and other Indian families living across the Emirates.
The event, held at Star International School, included chariot pulling, rituals performed as per Puri customs, and a rich display of Odia culture and community spirit. 'Chhera Pahanra' was performed by Amiya Mishra, president of OSUAE.
Adding to the celebrations was an array of delicacies cooked by Odias living in UAE. The festivities were further enriched by vibrant cultural programmes, including Odissi dance performances, sankirtan and 'bhajan sandhya' by Indians.
"The cultural and spiritual fusion reflects the true spirit of tolerance, unity, and diversity that the UAE proudly embodies," said Sudhashree Dash, a member of OSUAE.
Prasad was cooked by Odia cooks based in Dubai. "This is more than just a festival for us. It is our emotional connection with Odisha. For 15 years now, we have been able to recreate a piece of Odisha in the heart of UAE," said Prakash Bahinipati, cultural secretary of OSUAE. The chariot was built of wood in Dubai and décor sourced from Odisha.
Rath Yatra was also organised at Spring Dales School, Al Quoz, Dubai, on Sunday.
