PRESS RELEASE

Utkal Diwas 2018

Consulate General of India in collaboration with Odisha Society of Americas (OSA) NY/NJ Chaptercelebrated Utkal Diwas on 21^st April 2018 in the Consulate ballroom. Odia and friends of Odisha in the New York/ New Jersey area celebrated the foundation day of the state of Odisha, remembering history and displaying the state's rich culture.

2. The program began with India' national anthem. Mr. Sandeep Chakravorty, Consul General of India in New York reminisced about his travels to Odisha and spoke about Odisha’s contributions to India.

3. The event included a cultural program, musical performance by Guru Riti Mohanty, Odissi Dance by reputed local artist Pallavi Das, Sambalpuri Folk dance by local children and Odissi dance performance by students of Rhythms of Dance & Music, an Odissi school led by Guru Mitra Purakaystha. A video message from Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas on the occasion of Utkal Diwas was also conveyed.

4. The vision and mission of Odisha Society is to provide a mutually supportive environment for Odia immigrants, promote Odia culture and heritage, and facilitate the exchange of information between Odisha and North America, and help building a prosperous Odisha.

New York

April 25, 2018.