London, 04/11/2024: Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Parvati Parida, alongside Bexley Mayor Councillor Sue Gower MBE JP, inaugurated the new Odia restaurant, Chillika, in Bexleyheath, London. The event marked a significant cultural occasion, drawing an enthusiastic crowd from the Odia diaspora and other Indian communities, all eager to connect with Odisha’s first female Deputy Chief Minister. The inauguration was attended by dignitaries, including Councillor Rags Sandhu of Bexley Council, Councillor Avtar Sandhu from Dartford Council and Kent County Council, and UK-based entrepreneur Arun Kar.
The ceremony opened with the lighting of the traditional lamp, followed by the soulful rendition of Bande Utkala Janani, an anthem of Odisha’s heritage. The distinguished guests addressed the audience, sharing their excitement over the new restaurant and acknowledging the vibrant support of the diaspora for Odisha’s culture and their beloved Deputy CM.
In her speech, Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Parida highlighted Odisha’s commitment to women’s empowerment through the Subadhra Yojana, a government program that promotes economic independence and social recognition for women across the state. She emphasized Odisha’s growing global appeal as a tourism destination, inviting the Mayor, Councillors, and other UK community leaders to visit and experience Odisha’s cultural richness—its grand temples, exquisite art, spirited festivals, and stunning landscapes. “A minimum of seven days is required to fully appreciate the beauty and heritage of Odisha,” she noted.
Guests enjoyed a spread of authentic Odia cuisine, with traditional dishes like Dahi Bara Aloo Dum and classic mutton preparations, which received high praise. Smt. Parida commended the diaspora for preserving and proudly displaying their cultural heritage, reflected in both the cuisine and the handloom sarees worn by many women present.
As a token of appreciation, the Directors of the Odisha Society of the UK (OSUK)—Partha Panda, Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattnayak, Salil Kumar Das, Sasmita Rajhansha, Pravat Mishra, Srikanta Kumar Padhi, and Dipti Mohanty—along with Core Members Ambika Padhy, Subhakanta Das, Ashish Rajhans, Sweta Mohanty, Sumant Mansingh, and Sonali Panda, presented mementos to the Deputy CM and her delegation. The OSUK team expressed their deep gratitude for Smt. Parida’s time and warm engagement with the community.
The event also saw active participation from other cultural communities in the UK, including OFBJP General Secretary Suresh Mangalgiri, members of the Orpington Malyali Group (OMG) represented by Haridas Anandakuttan, Prafulla Shimpi from OMPEG Maharashtra, Apoorv Hiremath from Karnataka, and Ravi Sunkari from Andhra Pradesh. Their presence underscored the unity and camaraderie among India’s diverse communities in the UK, enhancing the joy of this celebratory occasion.
Chillika is poised to be a vibrant cultural hub for London’s Indian community, offering a taste of Odisha’s authentic cuisine and a space to celebrate shared traditions.
