Orissa Day celebrated in Delhi

New Delhi Apr 1 (UNI) The Oriya community in Delhi today celebrated the 72nd Orissa Day with various programmes depicting the rich cultural heritage of the state. Governor Muralidhar C Bhandare and Orissa Energy Minister S N Patro participated in the programme held at the Sai International Centre here.

Mr Bhandare enumerated the achievements of the state since its inception in 1936, following a unique language movement in the eastern part of the country. He recalled the contribution of Gopabandhu Das, Madhusudan Das and Radhanath Ray, who played pivotal role to realise the ''Orissa Dream''. He said, ''Orissa has remained a harbinger of peace and harmony and is a shining example of what the world should be.'' Mr Patro while highlighting the achievements of the Naveen Patnaik government, said, ''Strict financial discipline has led the state to achieve a Rs 3,000 crore surplus as against a deficit a few years ago.'' It is ranked second, to Haryana, among the states in terms of per capita investment, he added.

Highlights of the programme were an Odissi dance recital by Madhubrata Satpathy and her troupe, and Sambalpuri folk dances by Ukia and Ghumra and Chhau and Bajasaal performances by artists from various parts of the state.

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