In Bhubaneswar (Odisha), on Saturday during the 'Odia Pakhya' festivities, the Sports and Youth Services Department of Odisha organized the "Aitihya Ganadouda" heritage marathon. The event commenced at the historical Khandagiri Caves and concluded at Kalinga Studio Square, attracting numerous participants such as young people, culture lovers, and notable figures who eagerly took part in this initiative.
Odisha’s Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj launched the marathon alongside former track and field athlete Anuradha Biswal and cyclist Minati Mohapatra. As stated in a press release from the Odisha Sports and Youth Services Department, the occasion featured vibrant cultural performances, enthusiastic involvement, and a strong feeling of cultural pride.
Emphasizing the importance of the event, Minister for Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services along with Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Suryabanshi Suraj stated, “Today, the Sports and Youth Department of Odisha organized a Heritage Marathon throughout Odisha as part of ‘Odia Pakhya.’ Through this marathon held at multiple historic locations within the state, our aim is not just to showcase Odisha’s cultural richness but also to encourage people to preserve these sites and maintain their cleanliness. Additionally, this race promotes Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s initiative towards Fit India and raises nationwide consciousness regarding health and wellness.”
He further stated, “In addition to the Heritage Marathon, Odisha intends to engage with its 4.5 crore residents and motivate them to make fitness a part of their everyday routine, in line with Prime Minister Modi’s concept of a Fit India. The state plans to achieve this through various community outreach programs.”
On the fifth day of the Odia Pakhya festivities, the "Aitihya Ganadouda" promotes both health and camaraderie, while paying an evocative homage to Odisha’s eternal legacy. The occasion was enriched with cultural displays, authentic Odia dishes, and communal gatherings, which lent vibrant hues to the celebration. Enthusiasts captured snapshots at the picturesque Khandagiri site, posting these images onto the official Odia Pakhya webpage, thereby cherishing the regional cultural spirit.
Today, Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, prominent political figure Priyadarshi Mishra, Shri Jagannath Pradhan, and acclaimed Odia film star Sabyasachi Mishra were among those who attended the event, enhancing its liveliness.
In an unprecedented step, the Odisha government has declared elaborate festivities for 'Odia Pakhya,' spanning from April 1—Odisha Day—to April 14—the Odia New Year. Over these two weeks, numerous events will be organized throughout the state at both local and state levels with the objective of promoting the Odia language, literature, culture, and heritage. (ANI)