Pune: The vibrant and culturally significant Nuakhai festival, representing the harvest season, was celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Odia community residing in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. 

Organized by the Bhetgath Cultural Association, the event highlighted the rich traditions of western Odisha through folk songs, dances, and authentic cultural expressions, drawing a strong turnout from the local Odia population.

The celebration took place at the Late Ankushrao Landge Auditorium in Bhosari, where the colorful festivities were brought to life by performers showcasing traditional dances and singing folk songs in regional attire. 

The festival not only marked the harvest season but also offered a glimpse into Odisha's diverse and unique cultural legacy.

Among the distinguished attendees were notable members of the Bhetgath Cultural Association, including Sanjay Mohanty, Hemsagar Sahu, Jitendra Mishra, D.K. Bakshi, Anup Mishra, and Deepak Patel. 

In his address, Sanjay Mohanty emphasized the importance of such festivals in keeping the cultural identity alive. "The Bhetghat Cultural Association's mission is to spread awareness about the rich heritage of western Odisha in Pune.

Through the Nuakhai festival, we strive to introduce the traditions, food, and music of our region to people from various walks of life, while strengthening community bonds," said Mohanty.

The celebration brought western Odisha's traditions to the forefront, with Odia families proudly donning their traditional attire. The festival also featured a culinary experience, where attendees savored delicious traditional Odia dishes, offering them a taste of the region's authentic cuisine.

A special highlight of the event was the release of a booklet that provided an overview of the Odia community, its traditions, and its contributions to the cultural mosaic of the region. 

The Nuakhai festival, which celebrates the bounty of the harvest season, not only gave the community a chance to honor their roots but also brought together people from different backgrounds to appreciate the cultural richness of Odisha.