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Bhubaneswar, 20/02/2025 ( Odisha Samachar / Rajat Mohapatra )- Odisha, the Theme State at the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela, witnessed a grand celebration of its rich heritage and artistic excellence 
as Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister & Tourism Minister of Odisha, Smt. Pravati Parida, visited the Odisha Pavilion on 19th February 2025. 
The event was graced by Hon’ble Cabinet Minister of Tourism, Govt. of Haryana, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, who extended his support and appreciation for Odisha’s remarkable cultural showcase.
Empowering Odisha’s Artisans & Cultural Ambassadors
Smt. Pravati Parida interacted with Odisha’s renowned artisans, craftsmen, and performing artists, recognising them as the true cultural brand ambassadors of the State. She reaffirmed the Government of Odisha’s commitment to promoting traditional crafts, handlooms, and performing arts at national and global platforms, ensuring economic growth and sustainability for the artisan community.
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“Our artisans and artists are the heart of Odisha’s cultural identity. Their craftsmanship is more than tradition and are invaluable heritage that are preserved through generations. Inspired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, Odisha is dedicated to empowering its artisans, providing them with direct market access, recognition, and opportunities for economic upliftment.” -Deputy Chief Minister, Smt. Pravati Parida |
Speaking at the occasion, she stated:
A Vibrant Evening of Cultural Splendour
The day witnessed spellbinding performances by celebrated Odissi dancers, traditional folk artists, and musicians from Odisha, bringing alive the vibrant cultural spirit of the State. The audience was mesmerised by performances of Odissi, Gotipua, Sambalpuri folk dance, and Chhau, which showcased Odisha’s deep-rooted artistic traditions.
Odisha’s Showcase at Surajkund 2025
The Odisha Pavilion at the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela offers a captivating display of the State’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Visitors can experience exquisite handicrafts and handlooms, including Pattachitra paintings, Pipiliappliqué (Chandua), silver filigree, stone carvings, and handwoven Ikat sarees, each representing the skilled craftsmanship and centuries-old traditions of Odisha. The pavilion also brings to life the State’s culinary heritage, allowing visitors to savourauthentic Odia delicacies such as Dalma, Podo Pitha, Chhena Poda, and the iconic Rasagola, which reflect the region’s deep-rooted culinary culture.
A significant highlight of the pavilion is the architectural marvels on display, including a life-size replica of the Mukteshwara Temple’s grand Torana, showcasing Kalinga architecture, and an intricate sand art installation of Lord Jagannath by Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik, capturing Odisha’s deep spiritual and artistic legacy. Live demonstrations by artisans provide visitors with an interactive experience, showcasing the intricate processes of handloom weaving, stone carving, and painting, allowing them to witness the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Odisha’s artistic traditions.
A Commitment to Strengthening Odisha’s Cultural Economy
Odisha’s participation as the Theme State at the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela is a strategic effort to expand its cultural and tourism-driven economy by fostering key market linkages. The event serves as an ideal platform to boost B2C (Business-to-Consumer) engagement, connecting artisans directly with buyers, thereby ensuring greater market visibility for Odisha’s handicrafts, handlooms, and indigenous products. The Odisha pavilion enhances G2C (Government-to-Consumer) outreach by promoting Odisha’s eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and adventure tourism, encouraging increased footfall and interest from travellers.
Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida extended her heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Tourism, Govt. of Haryana, for his unwavering support and the Government of Haryana for providing this esteemed platform for cultural exchange. She also lauded the efforts of Odisha Tourism and all participating artists, artisans, and performers, whose dedication has made Odisha’s presence at Surajkund 2025 a grand success.
The Odisha Pavilion at Surajkund International Crafts Mela is open until 23rd February 2025. Visitors are invited to explore Odisha’s rich artistic traditions and experience the magic of its timeless heritage.
