Hundreds Join Marathon to Celebrate Odisha’s Glorious Cultural Heritage

Bhubaneswar, Apr 5 : As part of the ongoing Odia Pakhya celebrations, the city witnessed a vibrant marathon on Saturday, celebrating the rich cultural legacy of Odisha. Organized by the Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Odisha, the event attracted hundreds of participants including youth, cultural enthusiasts, and notable dignitaries.

The marathon commenced from the historic Khandagiri and culminated at Kalinga Studio Square, showcasing a blend of physical fitness and cultural pride. The route was abuzz with enthusiastic runners, traditional Odia performances, and vibrant community interactions, making it a visual treat and a memorable experience for all involved.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Odisha Sports & Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said, “We reaffirm our commitment to preserving and promoting our historical landmarks through this vibrant celebration. Odisha’s legacy of art, heritage, architecture, and tradition is not just our pride; it is a testimony to our glorious past and a guiding light for future generations.”

He further emphasized that the fifth day of Odia Pakhya was chosen to promote unity, fitness, and a collective tribute to Odisha’s enduring cultural values.

Adding to the event’s festive spirit were cultural performances, traditional Odia cuisine stalls, and community bonding activities. Participants were seen capturing memories at scenic Khandagiri and uploading selfies to the official Odia Pakhya website, amplifying the digital celebration of Odia identity.

The event also witnessed the presence of prominent figures such as Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, senior politicians Priyadarshi Mishra and Jagannath Pradhan, and popular film actor Sabyasachi Mishra, whose presence further energized the atmosphere.

The marathon stood as a testament to Odisha’s vibrant culture, its proud citizens, and the enduring spirit to celebrate and uphold its glorious heritage.