Bhubaneswar Welcomes ‘Extra Odinari’: A Pioneering Safe Space Championing Women’s Empowerment

Bhubaneswar: A transformative initiative redefining leisure and empowerment for women in Odisha, ‘Extra Odinari’ (Extra ଓଡ଼ିନାରୀ), was inaugurated at the Safe Odisha For Her headquarters in Saheed Nagar, Bhubaneswar, last Sunday. Conceptualized by feminist youth leader Sonali Priyadarsini, a participant in UN Women India’s Feminist Youth Leadership Program, this project seeks to create safe, inclusive spaces for women across social and economic divides.

The initiative is backed by Safe Odisha For Her, an organization committed to empowering women and gender minorities from marginalized communities. Through leadership development at Gram Panchayat and ward levels, the organization addresses gender-based violence and systemic inequality via community-driven solutions.

A Vision for Equity and Rest

Extra Odinari aspires to be more than just a physical space—it’s a movement that champions leisure as a fundamental right for women (including all those who identify as women). It provides a supportive environment for meaningful conversations, relaxation, and personal growth.

“This space is a bold statement against societal norms that often neglect women’s right to rest and leisure,” said Sonali Priyadarsini during the launch. “We aim to build a community where equity, inclusion, and belonging are celebrated.”

The facility will officially open in January 2025, operating as a women-only space from Monday to Friday. On weekends, it will welcome all visitors, fostering a spirit of shared community.

Highlights of the Launch

The event brought together inspiring personalities who emphasized the initiative’s message:

• Naisha Bhargabi, singer and multidisciplinary artist, captivated attendees with her soulful performance and stirring words.
• Rhea Resham Bari, fashion model and tribal rights advocate, delivered an empowering address on breaking barriers and advocating for tribal and gender equity.

Scaling the Movement

As an experimental venture under Safe Odisha For Her, Extra Odinari envisions scaling its impact across Odisha. By replicating its model in other locations, it aims to create a network of spaces where women can challenge systemic barriers, access resources, and thrive.