Odisha Foundation Day 2024: Utkal Divas Wishes, Significance, and 5 Delicious Odia Recipes!

On April 1, Odisha Day, or Utkala Dibasa, is celebrated to commemorate the formation of the state of Odisha. The occasion is joyously celebrated throughout the state, with individuals adorning their homes and public spaces with flags, banners and flowers in the colours of the state flag, symbolising the vibrant culture and heritage of Odisha.

Utkal Divas is not just a celebration of Odisha’s formation but also a celebration of its rich heritage and culture. From traditional Odia recipes, folk music, dances, paintings to tourist attractions, the state holds immense cultural wealth and Utkal Divas is a wonderful event to pay tribute and experience all that the state has to offer.

Utkal Divas Wishes

1. Utkal Divas is celebrated to commemorate the foundation day of our state. Best wishes to all the sisters and brothers of Odisha on the occasion of the Utkal Divas.
2. Wishing everyone a happy Odisha Foundation Day. Let us all strive toward a brighter and better future for Odisha.
3. We dreamt. We fought. We achieved. Happy Odisha Foundation day!
4. Greetings to the people of Odisha on statehood day. My best wishes to the state for a bright, prosperous, and peaceful future.
5. Utkal Dibasa greetings to my brothers and sisters of Odisha.

Utkal Divas History

Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Day, is celebrated annually to mark the formation of the state of Odisha on April 1, 1936. This day marks the separation of Odisha from the combined Bihar and Orissa province during British rule in India.

Odisha Day, also known as Vishuva Milan, is observed as a restricted holiday in the state. The entire state actively participates in the celebration of its foundation day, marked by cultural programs and events held across the region. The festivities also feature seminars and exhibitions highlighting the rich heritage and traditions of the land.

Utkal Divas Significance

Odisha Day holds great significance for all Odias worldwide. It has immense cultural importance as it symbolises the state’s identity, history and rich cultural heritage. It is a day of pride for the people of Odisha, celebrating their unique traditions and customs. This day also commemorates the people’s struggle for a separate state and to foster unity among its citizens.

5 Odia Recipes One Must Try

Trying out these traditional Odia recipes can be a wonderful way to celebrate the day and experience the flavours of Odisha’s traditional cuisine.

1. Pakhala BhataPakhala Bhata is a traditional Odia dish made by fermenting cooked rice in water. It is typically served with sides like fried or curried vegetables. To prepare Pakhala Bhata, cooked rice is allowed to cool and then mixed with water and a little salt. Some people also add curd to enhance the sourness. The mixture is then left to ferment for a few hours before being served.
2. Chhena PodaChhena Poda is a popular dessert from Odisha made from fresh cottage cheese (chhena), sugar and nuts. The mixture is shaped into patties and baked until golden brown. Chhena Poda has a rich, caramelised flavour and is a favorite among dessert lovers.
3. DalmaDalma is a nutritious stew made from lentils and vegetables. It is flavoured with ginger, garlic, cumin and turmeric. The lentils and vegetables are cooked together until soft and then tempered with ghee, cumin and garlic. Dalma is often served with rice and is a comfort food for many Odia households.
4. RasabaliRasabali is a sweet dish made from deep-fried paneer patties soaked in thickened, sweetened milk. The dish is flavoured with cardamom and saffron, giving it a rich and aromatic taste. Rasabali is a decadent dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
5. BesaraBesara is a traditional Odia mixed vegetable curry cooked in mustard paste and flavoured with aromatic spices. It’s a staple in Odia households and is often prepared during festivals and special occasions.