Odisha Parab 2026 kicks off in Guwahati, showcasing state’s rich culture and tourism

Bhubaneswar, Jan 31 : Odisha Parab 2026, a three-day cultural and tourism extravaganza organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with FICCI as the industry partner, was inaugurated in Guwahati on Saturday.

The festival aims to showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, exquisite handicrafts and handlooms, authentic cuisine, and diverse tourism experiences. It also seeks to strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties between Odisha and Assam.

Hosting Odisha Parab in Guwahati—often described as the gateway to the Northeast—underscores the state’s strategic focus on deepening cultural and tourism engagement with Eastern and Northeastern India. The initiative is intended to promote regional connectivity, collaboration, and mutual exchange through culture and tourism.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who described Odisha Parab as a flagship cultural initiative of the state. She said the event presents Odisha as an experiential destination that seamlessly blends heritage, culture, cuisine, natural beauty, and modern tourism infrastructure.

Senior officials of the Department of Tourism highlighted that Odisha Parab is more than a cultural festival. “It is a comprehensive tourism platform that brings together artisans, folk and classical performers, culinary experts, tour operators, and institutional stakeholders under one roof,” an official said.

Over the three days, visitors will experience live cultural performances, handicraft and handloom exhibitions, food festivals featuring traditional Odia cuisine, and tourism promotion activities. The event is expected to generate greater interest in Odisha as a preferred travel destination while providing artisans and performers a wider platform to showcase their talent.

Odisha Parab 2026 reflects the state’s continued efforts to position culture as a key driver of tourism and economic engagement across regions.