Odisha CM extends greetings on 'Utkal Divas', pays tribute to 'great sons' of state
Bhubaneswar, April 1
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday extended his greetings to the people of the state and Odia citizens residing across the country on the occasion of Odisha Foundation Day, also known as Utkal Divas.
Marking the formation of the first state on a linguistic basis, Odisha has carved a distinct identity both nationally and globally. On this occasion, CM Majhi paid heartfelt tributes to the great sons of the soil whose vision and sacrifices made a separate Odisha possible, according to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
"With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, the government remains fully committed to preserving and promoting Odia identity and culture. It is continuously working to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of every Odia. Building Odisha into one of the leading states of the country is its sole objective. On this auspicious day, let us all come together and take a firm pledge to build a 'Samruddha Odisha'," the CM stated.
Odisha celebrates Utkal Divas with great enthusiasm and pride, as it marks the historic formation of the state on April 1, 1936. The day commemorates the long-cherished dream of the Odia people for a separate linguistic identity.
Utkal Divas holds deep emotional significance for every Odia heart. It recalls the tireless efforts and sacrifices made by generations of Odia leaders and people to achieve a distinct state based on linguistic identity after years of struggle.
The formation of Odisha on this day fulfilled the aspirations of the Odia-speaking population, who sought administrative and cultural unity under one state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings on the occasion, highlighting Odisha as the "timeless symbol of cultural as well as spiritual greatness" and the contribution of its people in propelling several fields.
"Odia music, art and literature have enriched India in countless ways. The people of Odisha, known for their determination, simplicity and warmth, have made remarkable contributions across fields. May Odisha keep scaling new heights of progress in the times to come," the PM wrote on X.
Across the state, celebrations include cultural programs and tributes to freedom fighters and eminent Odia personalities. These activities not only reinforce Odisha's rich heritage but also highlight its vibrant identity and enduring spirit.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Jai Jagannath! 🙏 A very emotional day for every Odia. Remembering the sacrifices of Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and so many others who fought for our separate identity. The CM's words about building a 'Samruddha Odisha' are good, but the government must now match those words with concrete action for farmers and youth.
Working in Bangalore for 10 years, but my heart is always in my Odisha. On Utkal Divas, we Odia software engineers here are organizing a small get-up with pakhalo bhaat and rasagulla! It's beautiful to see PM Modi also acknowledging our state's spiritual and cultural greatness.
As an expat married into an Odia family, I've come to love this celebration. The history of it being the first linguistic state in India is fascinating. The pride people here have for their language, art, and Lord Jagannath is truly special. Wishing everyone a happy Odisha Day!
Good to see the greetings from both CM and PM. Odisha's journey is inspiring. However, while we celebrate our past, we must also focus on the present challenges - better infrastructure in tribal areas, more job creation. Let the pledge for a prosperous Odisha be more than just an annual ritual.
ଓଡ଼ିଶା ମୋ ଜାତି, ଓଡ଼ିଆ ମୋ ପ୍ରାଣ! 🇮🇳 Feeling so proud today. From our beautiful classical Odissi dance to the
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