Heavy footfall at Odisha Parba 2018 in New Delhi

New Delhi: Odisha Parba-2018, a three-day-long mega celebration of Odisha’s culture, tradition, heritage and cuisine witnessed heavy footfall on its second day on Saturday.

Odisha Parba is organised by Odia Samaj in the heart of National Capital at Lawn No-6, India Gate. The Parba which would be open for public till 11th March is an opportunity for people to experience the unique art, culture, heritage, tradition, cuisine, dance, music and various other delights from this beautiful coastal state.

The Parba is also showcasing the illustrious history and saga of valour of Odisha’s brave hearts also known as Paika fighters.

Siddhartha Pradhan, President of Odia Samaj said, “We are delighted to witness such a huge gathering here. After the successful first edition of Odisha Parba, we wanted to give even a better experience this time and the huge gathering of people is a testimony to our hard work and commitment. Through this festival, we are showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Odisha.

It is very satisfying to see people enjoying the glimpses of our culture through the handlooms like Sambalpuri saree, Kotpad saree etc. and relishing the mouth-watering dishes like Gupchup katki Chaat, Pitha etc.”

Day 2 marked the biggest attraction for the people of Delhi with first of its kind fashion show, conceptualized by Sunil Sethi, President Fashion Design Council of India. It showcased the beautiful handlooms of Odisha in an innovative and contemporary style.

Cultural performances unfurled on the Day 2 of the Parba with a live band programme by Antara Chakrabarty, Diptirekha, Vishnu Mohan Kabi, Bishwajit Mohapatra, Music Direction- Premananda and AtulyaParampara by Singhabadya, Durua and Ranappa.

An exquisite Mughal Tamsa Odia Play was performed by Bansiballav Giridhari Natya Sansad. 2nd day of the event also witnessed the Mesmerizing Dashabatar performance by Padma Shri Guru Mayadhar Raut/Madhumita Raut and disciples. Chhau dance a semi-classical Indian dance with martial, tribal and folk origins in the name of Krishnayan was also performed by eminent artists from Odisha.

Yet another folk dance known as Sambalpuri dance which is one of the sought and leading foam of folk dances in Odisha was also shown to the visitors at India gate. There was also a tribute given to late Akshaya Mohanty, a leading musician of the Ollywood industry of his times by Chitrabanu Mohanty and group.

Besides this, another new chapter added this year is the painting competition titled ‘Aakar’, in which many children, below18 years of age, participated with much vigour and enthusiasm. The theme of this competition is “Spirit of Odisha”. The painting competition for children will be held tomorrow as well between 12 pm to 2 pm and the reporting time is 11 am.

Sculpture gallery by Padma ShriSudarshanSahoo, fine art demos& workshop, live demos by renowned Odia artists, sale and display of beautiful artefacts and exquisite handlooms, mouth-watering Odia delicacies, folk dances and music shows are some special aspects of the mega event.

The 2nd edition of OdishaParba has covered 50% more area than last year; totally spreading over an area of 2 lakh 60 thousand sq. ft, the event is showcasing the rich legacy of Odisha.

The entrance gate designed in the shape of ‘DolaBimana’ replicates a common sight in Odisha, during the festival of Holi. Intricate Pattachitra design is adding colours to this decorum. A Grand Stage set up wit the backdrop of historic Barabati Fort is evoking the glorious past of Odisha.

This year the entire food court has been designed in a fort style, reflecting the ambience of “Baarah Maasi Tera Parba”, which reflects Odisha’s passion for festivals in one calendar year. There are more than hundred handlooms, handicraft, itinerary and food stalls highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.