Dubai: Odisha Samaj UAE has once again brought the rich culinary heritage of Odisha to the global stage with the successful completion of the 10th edition of Haandisaala – The Odisha Food Festival.
This annual event, organised to promote Odia cuisine in a foreign land, witnessed an overwhelming response from the Odia community across the UAE.
This year’s festival featured around 50 stalls, offering an exquisite array of authentic Odia delicacies such as Patra Poda Chingudi (banana leaf-roasted prawns), Arisa Pitha (crispy rice cake), Dahibara Aloodum (lentil dumplings in yogurt with spiced potatoes), Chhena Poda (caramelized cheese dessert), and many more. Hundreds of Odias residing in the UAE attended the event to relish the traditional flavors of their homeland.
In addition to the food festival, Odisha Samaj UAE also hosted Kalinga Utsav, a vibrant cultural segment featuring various competitions for children, all centered around Odisha’s rich heritage. The event provided an opportunity for young Odias to connect with their roots through creative and educational activities.
Speaking on the occasion, President of Odisha Samaj UAE Amiya Mishra expressed his pride in the community’s efforts to preserve and promote Odia culture. “This is not just about cuisine; it is our identity and an integral part of our heritage. Haandisaala offers a platform for Odias to showcase their culinary skills while giving the larger community a taste of Odisha in a foreign land,” he said.
The event was graced by Bijender Singh, Consul Consular, who joined as the chief guest. His presence added to the significance of the occasion, further strengthening the cultural ties between the Indian community in the UAE and their homeland.
With each passing year, Haandisaala continues to grow in popularity, strengthening cultural ties and fostering a sense of belonging among Non-Resident Odias in the UAE. Odisha Samaj UAE remains committed to preserving and celebrating Odisha’s traditions, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots.
