Odisha Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj promotes Fit India Movement via Heritage Marathon

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As part of the ongoing 'Odia Pakhya' celebrations, the Sports and Youth Services Department of Odisha on 5th April, 2025 organised the "Aitihya Ganadouda" ( heritage marathon) in Bhubaneswar. Starting from the historic Khandagiri caves and concluding at Kalinga Studio Square, the marathon drew participation from hundreds of enthusiastic citizens, including youth, cultural enthusiasts and dignitaries.

The marathon was flagged off by Odisha's Sports & Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj along with former track and field athlete Anuradha Biswal and cyclist Minati Mohapatra. The event was marked by the exuberance of cultural performances, spirited participation and a deep sense of cultural pride.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Minister for Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services and Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj said, "Odisha's Sports and Youth Department today organsied a Heritage Marathon across Odisha to celebrate 'Odia Pakhya'. Via this Marathon across various heritage sites in Odisha, we not only want to promote Odisha culture, but also want to spread awareness about protecting these places and keeping them clean. Further, this marathon is also promoting Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji's vision for Fit India and spreading awareness about fitness across the country."

He then went on to add, "Beyond the Heritage Marathon, Odisha aims to connect with its 4.5 crore Odias and inspire them to incorporate fitness into their daily lives, aligning with Prime Minister Modi's vision of a Fit India. Through different community outreach initiatives"

As the fifth day of the Odia Pakhya celebrations, the "Aitihya Ganadouda" not only promote fitness and unity but also served as a moving tribute to the timeless heritage of Odisha. Cultural performances, traditional Odia cuisine and community bonding added colour to the event. Participants shared selfies from the scenic Khandagiri location, uploading them to the official Odia Pakhya website, celebrating the cultural essence of the region.

Ekamra MLA Shri Babu Singh, Senior politician Shri Priyadarshi Mishra, Shri Jagannath Pradhan and renowned film odia actor Sabyasachi Mishra also graced the occasion today, adding to the event's vibrancy.

In a historic move, the Odisha government has announced the grand celebration of 'Odia Pakhya' from 1st April , Odisha Day to 14th April, Odia New Year. This 14-day celebration aims to promote Odia language, literature, culture and heritage through various programs across the state, from the block level to the state level.