Odisha Utsav will be held in Kolkata for the first time on March 8, showcasing Odissi, Chhau, folk arts, traditional cuisine, handloom, and Odia cultural heritage
OdishaPlus Bureau
In a notable effort to extend the rich cultural heritage of Odisha beyond its borders, the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department is set to host the Odisha Utsav in Kolkata for the very first time. This event is scheduled to take place on March 8, 2026, at the auditorium of the National Library in Kolkata.
The festival will be inaugurated by Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. During this event, Odia writers residing in West Bengal, along with various organizations representing the Odia diaspora, will also be honored.
Odisha Utsav will feature a vibrant display of Odisha’s folk arts, its rich heritage, and traditions, as well as traditional cuisine, handloom, and handicraft items. Artists from Odisha will showcase a range of cultural performances, including Odissi, Sahi Jata, Chhau, Ghumura, Dhemsa, Pashumukha dance, and Sambalpuri dance.
In remarks regarding the festival, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj emphasized that Odisha is a land steeped in art and culture, and that promoting its rich cultural heritage to a broader audience is a primary goal. With this objective in mind, the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department is organizing the Odisha Utsav for the first time.
He also mentioned that the festival will serve as an excellent platform for cultural exchange among the Odia diaspora and will assist in reconnecting individuals with Odia cultural values, traditions, and its illustrious heritage. Furthermore, the event is anticipated to play a significant role in the wider promotion and dissemination of Odisha’s cultural legacy.
