Author: BIBHUTI PATTNAYAK

London, UK – Bharatiya Janata Party’s significant victories in both the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections in Odisha resonated in the UK, where the Odia community enthusiastically joined the OFBJP UK Odisha Chapter’s celebration at Deja Vu Restaurant, London. With BJD’s 24-year rule in Odisha ending, the Odia diaspora in the UK is optimistic about the development opportunities under the new BJP government. The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the singing of “Bande Utkala Janani,” an Odia song that celebrates Odisha’s rich cultural and historical heritage, embracing the pride of being an Odia. This…

The Jagannatha Rath Yatra, a cornerstone of Hindu festivals, unfolded with unparalleled fervour across the United Kingdom this year, uniting devotees in celebration and spiritual devotion. From London to historic cities like Bath, Aylesbury, Manchester, and Cambridge, the festival showcased a vibrant tapestry of culture, community spirit, and religious reverence. London’s Vibrant Tribute to Lord Jagannatha In Southall, London, the Shree Jagannatha Society UK (SJSUK) orchestrated a spectacular celebration on Sunday, 7th July 2024, coinciding with the auspicious Ashadha Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi. The event, held at The Featherstone High School, drew over 600 devotees, who gathered to honour Lord…

London, June 29, 2024 – The capital city of the United Kingdom witnessed a colourful and lively celebration of Raja Festival, an essential Odia festival marking the onset of the agricultural season and celebrating womanhood. Organised by OCAL UK, this 16th annual event brought together the Odia diaspora from across the UK, transforming a distant locale into a vibrant hub of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The event, held at a school premise in London, was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Sumant Mansingh and Partha Sarathi Panda from the Odia Society UK (OSUK), as well as Dr. Sahadev Swain from the…

The 77th Cannes Film Festival, held from May 14 to 25, 2024, showcased global cinematic excellence with diverse films and star-studded red carpet events. Filmmaker Partha Panda attended, representing a UK-India co-production aimed at cultural exchange. The festival featured notable fashion moments and significant deals, such as Netflix acquiring Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City.” Cannes remains pivotal in celebrating storytelling and shaping film trends. Partha Panda in 77th Cannes Film Festival 2024 The Cannes Film Festival is a prestigious annual event that has captivated the global film industry for decades. As one of the most renowned and celebrated film festivals in…

London, UK – Odisha Day, or Utkala Dibasa, celebrates the state’s establishment as a separate entity on April 1, 1936. It delineated from the former Bihar and Orissa Province, predating Indian Independence, showcasing the country’s first linguistic demarcation-based state formation. This commemoration embodies Odisha’s rich heritage, from its iconic temples to vibrant dance forms like Odissi, and unique tribal traditions. It serves as a reflection of Odia resilience and unity, honouring their struggles and triumphs. Additionally, the occasion offers a gastronomic adventure through Odisha’s diverse cuisine, promising a blend of flavours and culinary delights, epitomizing the state’s cultural richness. Odias…

In a lively demonstration of harmony and cultural amalgamation, the Holi celebration organised by the Hindu Cultural Society in Fort Gardens, Milton Place, Gravesend, welcomed a diverse array of communities to partake in the festivities. Notable attendees such as Adam Holloway, MP for Gravesham, and Deputy Mayor Cllr Daniel Adewale King, added to the event’s inclusive ambiance and sense of camaraderie. The gathering, orchestrated by the Hindu Cultural Society, attracted individuals from varied backgrounds to engage in the vibrant celebration of colors. As shades of red, green, yellow, and blue adorned the atmosphere, laughter and merriment reverberated throughout the venue,…