Kumar Festival 2024: A Spectacular Celebration of Odia Culture in Pune
The Odia diaspora in Pune organized the “Kumar Festival 2024,” a grand cultural program that drew thousands of people to the O. Galli Soyarika Garden. Managed by the “Odia Sanskriti Parishad,” this festival has been celebrated for the past four years and continues to bring together the community with vibrant displays of Odisha’s rich culture and traditions.
The event featured several dignitaries, including former Odisha Home and IT Minister Mr. Tusharkanti Behera as the chief guest, with Mr. Ramdas Dabade as the guest of honor. Bhubaneswar Mayor, Mrs. Sulochana Das, served as the keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of organizing such events to foster discussions on Odisha’s history, art, culture, and traditions.
The evening began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tributes to Lord Jagannath. A series of captivating performances followed, including dance acts by renowned comedian Rajudas and popular singers Kumar Janu, Pragya Sethi, and Amrita Patnaik, who enthralled the audience by showcasing the vibrancy of Odia culture.
During the event, several Pune-based artists were felicitated by the “Odia Sanskriti Parishad” for their efforts in promoting Odia culture. Honorees included Hindustani vocalist Rajshree Hota, Odisha folk and tribal dance promoter Prachi Panigrahi, classical music and hymn singer Pragati Shethi, and internationally acclaimed Odissi dancer Prajyot Adyasha Das.
The evening culminated in a traditional Odisha cultural showcase that left the audience in awe. Executive members of the “Orthodox Cultural Council,” including Sushmita Mohapatra, Monalisa Rath, Susanjita Ray, Sasmita Patnaik, Jayaprada Biswal, and others, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event. Their efforts created a deep emotional connection with the audience, strengthening the bond within the Odia community living in Pune.
The Kumar Festival 2024 was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and looking forward to future celebrations of Odia culture.
