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Odisha Sets Guinness Record with 1,174 Kg Pakhala Feast, CM Majhi Celebrates

The Odisha Tourism Department has secured a Guinness World Record for the largest serving of fermented rice dish 'Pakhala', preparing 1,174 kg in a single vessel. The feat was achieved during the state-level Pakhala Paraba festival in Bhubaneswar, where the dish was distributed to more than 2,000 people. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi hailed the achievement as a moment of pride that brings global recognition to Odisha's cherished culinary tradition. He emphasized that promoting such indigenous food is key to moving towards a developed Odisha while preserving its cultural roots.

Key Points: Odisha's Pakhala Sets Guinness World Record for Largest Serving

  • 1,174 kg Pakhala sets Guinness record
  • Dish prepared from 850 kg of rice
  • Served to over 2,000 people
  • Part of state's Pakhala Paraba festival
  • Aims to promote Odia culture globally
2 min read

Odisha tourism achieves Guinness record for largest serving of 'Pakhala', CM Majhi hails feat

Odisha Tourism achieves a Guinness World Record by serving 1,174 kg of traditional Pakhala, a feat hailed by CM Mohan Charan Majhi.

"This accomplishment reflects our commitment to promoting Odisha's rich culinary heritage on the global stage. - Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi"

Bhubaneswar, March 20

On the occasion of word 'Pakhala Divas', the Odisha Tourism Department, on Friday, achieved a historic global milestone by securing a Guinness World Record for the largest serving of fermented rice, with an impressive total of 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel.

"This remarkable feat not only celebrates Odisha's rich culinary heritage but also brings international recognition to Pakhala, an iconic traditional dish deeply embedded in the state's culture and everyday life," the department said in an official statement.

It also added that the achievement marks a significant moment in positioning Odisha's indigenous food traditions on the global map, showcasing how Pakhala Bhat has evolved from a humble local staple to a symbol of cultural pride with worldwide relevance.

Taking to his official X account, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said, "With an unprecedented 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel, this historic achievement brings global recognition to Pakhala, one of Odisha's most cherished traditional dishes, deeply rooted in our culture and daily life."

"This accomplishment reflects our commitment to promoting Odisha's rich culinary heritage on the global stage. It is a proud moment for every Odia, as we take our timeless traditions from local to global, further strengthening Odisha's identity as a hub of cultural and gastronomic excellence," he noted.

On Friday, the Odisha Tourism Department organised the state-level "Pakhala Paraba (Festival)" at Panthanivas in Bhubaneswar to enhance the popularity of traditional summer delicacy, "Pakhala".

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Majhi emphasised that Pakhala is not just a food item, but an inseparable part of Odisha's culture and tradition.

Before the programme officially began, the Chief Minister visited the Odia Food Festival at Panthanivas, appreciating nearly 326 varieties of Odia dishes.

He also partook in Pakhala along with all dignitaries' present.

In a special attempt to set a Guinness World Record, the Tourism Department prepared 1,174 kg of Pakhala from 850 kg of rice, attracting widespread attention.

The dish was distributed to more than 2,000 people from underprivileged communities.

"In a rapidly changing world, it is essential to move forward while staying connected to our roots also holds equal importance. Pakhala Day has become an integral part of the state government's vision for a 'Viksit Odisha'. Our government's primary goal is to move forward firmly towards modernity while preserving our rich cultural heritage," Chief Minister Majhi said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
A world record is great, but I hope the focus on tourism and records also translates into better support for our local farmers who grow the rice. The real heritage is in sustaining the people who produce these ingredients.
S
Sarah B
This is such interesting cultural news! I had never heard of Pakhala before. As a foodie, I love learning about regional dishes from India. The scale of this is incredible - 1,174 kg! Hope to try it someday.
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Aman W
Good step for tourism, but honestly, these records sometimes feel like a publicity stunt. The best way to preserve culture is by making sure the younger generation values it in their daily lives, not just in one-off events. Still, a proud moment for Odisha.
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Meera T
My grandmother used to make the best pakhalabhat with badi chura and saga. This news brought back so many memories. Glad it was distributed to underprivileged communities too. That's the real spirit - sharing our culture and food with everyone. ❤️
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Vikram M
Every state should promote its unique cuisine like this. India's diversity is its strength. From Odisha's Pakhala to Tamil Nadu's Curd Rice, these humble dishes tell the story of our land and people. More power to such initiatives!

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