Residents of the National Capital Region (NCR) came out in large numbers to celebrate the three-day Odisha Parba 2017, a mega event to celebrate Odisha’s Culture, Tradition, Heritage and Cuisine held between April 29 and May 1, 2017. It was organized by the Odia Samaj at the India Gate Lawns, New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by Mr Arun Jaitley, Union Minister for Finance, Defence and Corporate Affairs. Justice Dipak Misra of the Supreme Court of India and Mr Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas (I/C) attended this mega event as the Guests of Honour. At the valedictory, Governor of Jharkhand Smt. Draupadi Murmu attended as Chief Guest. Among others, Member of Parliament from Kendrapada Mr Baijayant Panda, and Union Culture Secretary Mr N K Sinha graced the evening. 

Mr Jaitley said, “People of the Odisha were the first to cross the boundaries taking the tedious sea route to spread Indian culture in the outside world. This grand event provides a platform to non-Odia people to learn about the rich culture and traditions of Odisha. I am hopeful this event will be held regularly hereafter.”