During the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention held in Bhubaneswar, guests from around the world were treated to an array of traditional Odia dishes that delighted their palates. The event, which celebrated the contributions of the Indian diaspora, offered a culinary experience that allowed guests to savor signature Odia food items, ranging from savory curries to mouth-watering sweetmeats.
Traditional Odia Delicacies
Among the standout dishes that garnered praise were:
Dalma: A hearty mix of pulses and vegetables.
Saga Muga: A light yet flavorful combination of leaf and moong dal.
Kukuda Aloo Jhola: A spicy chicken curry.
Chenapoda: A baked cheese sweet that was a crowd favorite.
While the menu also featured North Indian and continental options, the NRIs expressed their immense satisfaction with the authentic Odia platter. Many guests, like K V Rathee from Canada, shared their joy after tasting dishes like Saga Muga, Dalma, and Rasgulla, noting that the flavors were not too spicy, yet packed with depth.
International Guests Share Their Impressions
NRIs such as Raman Tanga praised the food, especially the sweet dishes, while Falguni Patel from Uganda highlighted the significance of showcasing Odia food at such a prestigious event. Patel emphasized the need for greater promotion of Odia cuisine on global platforms, adding that the sweets in particular stood out.
Special Arrangements and Culinary Excellence
The PBD convention provided special arrangements for high-profile guests such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. A private hotel catered to the attendees, preparing dishes in a traditional style. Over the first two days of the event, approximately 10,000 guests were served, with 1,500 chefs involved in preparing the meals.
The culinary team, led by Mridul Mandal, chief chef of the hotel, took pride in delivering Odia dishes that closely mirrored those made in local homes. Dishes like Pariba Ghanta, Kanika Rice (a sweet rice dish), and Macha Besara (fish in mustard gravy) were served, highlighting both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Additionally, the famous Chenapoda sweet dish was presented to Prime Minister Modi, further elevating the culinary experience.
Experiencing Odisha’s Culture
Beyond the food, the Odisha government also provided accommodations for the NRIs at Home Stays, allowing them to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the region. Moreover, 31 tourist destinations around Bhubaneswar and Puri were identified, showcasing the state’s rich heritage, history, and architecture.
Overall, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas provided a perfect platform for Odisha to share its rich cultural legacy with the world, from its food to its historic sites. The event proved to be a true celebration of both heritage and hospitality.
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