New Delhi, 01 April (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed heartfelt greetings to Odisha on Utkala Dibasa, celebrating the state as a timeless symbol of cultural as well as spiritual greatness.

In an X post, PM Modi stated: Greetings on the special occasion of Utkala Dibasa. Odisha is a state that stands tall as a timeless symbol of cultural as well as spiritual greatness. Odia music, art and literature have enriched India in countless ways. The people of Odisha, known for their determination, simplicity and warmth, have made remarkable contributions across fields. May Odisha keep scaling new heights of progress in the times to come.

PM Modi also shared the message in Odia, connecting directly with state residents.

Utkala Dibasa Significance: Observed annually on April 1 since 1936, the day commemorates Odisha's creation as India's first linguistically reorganized province—honoring ancient Odia heritage through Jagannath culture, classical Odissi dance, Pattachitra art, and literary giants like Sarala Das and Fakir Mohan Senapati.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar