NEW Delhi: Odisha Parba has played an important role in making people aware of the rich heritage of Odisha’s art, literature, dance, music and cuisine, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday. Gracing the ‘Odisha Parba-2024’ in New Delhi she appreciated all stakeholders for organising this event for a decade in New Delhi.
The President said that the Kalinga War turned ‘Chandashoka’ in to ‘Dharmashoka’. “This war teaches us that peace is important for progress. Some parts of today’s world are facing conflicts. The Kalinga war chapter of Odisha’s history can show the path of peace to the world,” she said. The President said that the most important aspect of Odisha’s culture is tolerance and urged the people to live with affection and harmony and work to the best of their ability for India and Odisha.
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi said that for the thousands of Odia people living in the national capital this festival is a beautiful attempt to experience Odisha while staying in Delhi. “I know that no matter what you dress or act like, you are always rooted to the state in your heart. Orthodox consciousness is the jewel of your soul. Orthodox love is a sweet pride that lives in your blood,” he said.
Majhi said the presence of the President at the festival has increased the grandeur of the festival manifold. “For this, I express my heartfelt thanks to the Honorable President on behalf of all of you,” he added. He said Odias living in the State or outside are promoting this rich tradition which is certainly admirable.
Majhi said that all know that our language, literature, culture and history are very great. Odisha is famous in art and culture not only in the country, but all over the world. “Every village, every alley of Odisha is filled with a special glimpse of art and culture. Oriya is a classical language. Odissi dance is a classical dance. We will continue our efforts to give classical status to Odissi music as well. Language and culture are the identity of a nation,” he added.
“We have taken all necessary steps to protect the gems with a corpus fund of Rs 500 crores for the service of the Lord. A special Odisha Asmita Corps Fund has been set up at Rs.200 crore. A provision of Rs 72 crore has been made to support artistes and Rs 15 crore has been earmarked for preservation of works. Along with this, we have taken up many programs like establishing a special Odia Asmita Bhavan, Odia Translation Academy and establishing a world-class museum for the conservation of palm leaves,” he said and added, “Our government is committed at every level to protect the cultural heritage of Odisha and will continue to do so.”
He said along with arts and culture, economic development is also important and his government has started vigorous efforts to promote industrial development in the state.
