India, March 30 -- The government will celebrate Odia Pakhya, a 14-day cultural festival, from April 1 to 14 across the state, marking a vibrant period from Odisha Day to the Odia New Year. The initiative aims to reconnect people with Odisha's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

The announcement was made by Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj during a press conference in Bhubaneswar. He stated that the festival, first introduced in 2025, will be celebrated with greater grandeur this year across the state.

Highlighting the significance of the festival, the Minister said Odia Pakhya is not merely a government programme but a collective effort to celebrate Odia language, literature, food, traditions, attire and lifestyle.

Key events dur...