Paradip Port Celebrates Raja Mahotsav, Hosts Three-Day Cultural Show at Gopabandhu Stadium

Paradip:

Port Wings News Network:

Paradip Port Authority (PPA), in association with Jagannath Lalit Kala Sansad, has organized a grand three-day Raja Mahotsav from 14 to 16 June, 2026, at Gopabandhu Stadium, Paradip, showcasing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and strengthening community bonds.

The festivities were formally inaugurated by P. L. Haranadh, IRTS, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, through a unique and culturally significant ceremony. Departing from the conventional ribbon-cutting tradition, Haranadh inaugurated the celebrations by symbolically cutting a giant Poda Pitha, the iconic delicacy associated with Raja Parba, in the presence of Heads of Departments, senior officers, employees, stakeholders and members of the local community.

Addressing the gathering, Haranadh lauded the efforts of Capt. A. C. Sahoo and Jagannath Lalit Kala Sansad for making elaborate arrangements for the festival and invited people to participate wholeheartedly in the celebrations.

“The festival we celebrate every year with great pomp and enthusiasm here in Paradip reflects the grandeur of Odisha’s cultural heritage. There are very few places with such a magnificent legacy. Festivals are an integral part of our lives and Raja Parba symbolizes fertility and productivity. It holds immense significance for agriculture, industrial growth and the overall prosperity of our state,” he said.

Highlighting the role of Paradip Port in the nation’s development, Shri Haranadh stated that since 1967, Paradip Port has been continuously supporting the Indian economy and has emerged as a strong anchor for Odisha’s economic growth. He noted that the Port has generated employment for thousands of people and has played a vital role in promoting trade and industrial development.

Speaking about the Port’s achievements, Haranadh said that Paradip Port Authority has recorded remarkable growth during the last five years and has earned several prestigious recognitions. He informed that Paradip Port recently received an award from the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, in Mumbai.

Referring to the Port’s operational excellence, Haranadh stated that among all major ports, non-major ports and private ports in the country handling more than five million tonnes of cargo annually, Paradip Port has emerged as the leading major port in dry bulk cargo handling.

He noted that while some ports excel in container traffic, Paradip Port has established itself as the number one major port in dry bulk cargo handling, reaffirming its position as one of India’s premier maritime gateways.

Haranadh attributed these achievements to the collective efforts of the entire Paradip Port fraternity, including Heads of Departments, senior officers, employees, stevedores, PPP partners, stakeholders and their families.

“The credit for these accomplishments belongs to every member of the Paradip Port family. It is through teamwork, dedication and the support of our families that such milestones have been achieved,” he remarked.

The three-day Raja Mahotsav features a wide range of traditional competitions including Raja Doli, Poda Pitha preparation, Raja Pana preparation, Puchi, cards, volleyball, skipping, Natukhela, poetry recitation, Sankha Badana and Hulahuli competitions. The festivities are further enlivened by colourful evening dance and music performances presented by various cultural organizations and artists, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere.

The Raja Mahotsav is being organized with the active support and participation of Heads of Departments, senior officers, employees, the Port Club, Ladies Club, Gopabandhu Krida Sansad, Paradip Saksharata Samiti and several cultural organizations. The initiative seeks to preserve and promote Odisha’s vibrant traditions while fostering greater community engagement.

The inaugural ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from Heads of Departments, senior officers, officials, employees and their family members, reflecting the spirit of togetherness and cultural harmony that characterizes Raja Parba.

Members of the public, media representatives and visitors from across the region are invited to join the celebrations and experience the essence of Odisha’s cherished Raja Festival.

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