What was once a humble bowl of fermented rice has now become a global phenomenon. Celebrating World Pakhal Day, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi headlined the state-level ‘Pakhal Parva’ in Bhubaneswar, declaring the dish an inseparable part of Odia identity.
Highlighting its "zero-waste" and probiotic benefits, the CM emphasized that Pakhala bridges the gap between the divine offerings for Lord Jagannath and the daily life of the common man.
The event reached a fever pitch with a massive Guinness World Record attempt: a staggering 1,117 kg of Pakhal prepared using 850 kg of rice, later distributed to over 2,000 people from marginalized communities.
The celebration went digital as the CM connected virtually with the Odia diaspora across 15 countries, including Singapore and Malaysia, proving that tradition can withstand the tide of Western food culture.
From showcasing 326 varieties of Odia delicacies to honoring chefs promoting regional flavors globally, the message was clear: Pakhala is no longer just "food for the poor"—it is a proud cultural export. As the CM shared a meal with dignitaries, he urged the youth to embrace these roots that keep the Odia spirit hydrated and healthy.