‘Aitihya Ganadouda’ Marathon Celebrates Odisha’s Rich Heritage During Odia Pakhya

Bhubaneswar: As part of the ongoing Odia Pakhya celebrations, the Sports and Youth Services Department of Odisha today organised the vibrant “Aitihya Ganadouda” marathon in Bhubaneswar, blending heritage with fitness and community spirit. The event began at the historic Khandagiri and concluded at Kalinga Studio Square, drawing hundreds of enthusiastic participants, including youth, cultural lovers, and dignitaries.

The air was charged with energy as cultural performances and traditional music accompanied the marathon, celebrating Odisha’s glorious legacy. The event served not just as a sporting occasion but as a living tribute to the timeless art, architecture, and heritage that define the state.

Minister for Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, and Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Suryabanshi Suraj, lauded the significance of the event, stating, “Today, through this vibrant celebration, we reaffirm our commitment to preserve and promote our historical landmarks. Odisha’s legacy of art, heritage, architecture and tradition is not just our pride, it is a testimony of our glorious past and a guiding light for our future generations.”

As the fifth day of the Odia Pakhya observance, the marathon highlighted themes of unity, pride, and cultural awareness. Participants not only took part in the run but also immersed themselves in traditional Odia cuisine and community celebrations along the route. Many took selfies at the picturesque Khandagiri site and uploaded them to the official Odia Pakhya portal, adding a digital layer of engagement to the cultural festivity.

The event was further enriched by the presence of prominent personalities including Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, senior politician Priyadarshi Mishra, Jagannath Pradhan, and celebrated film actor Sabyasachi Mishra, who joined in encouraging the runners and celebrating the spirit of Odia identity.