Bhubaneswar: Odisha achieved a historic global milestone on the occasion of ‘Pakhala Dibasa’ by bagging a Guinness World Records for the largest serving of fermented rice with weighing 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel.
“This remarkable feat not only celebrates Odisha’s rich culinary heritage but also brings international recognition to Pakhala, an iconic traditional dish deeply embedded in the state’s culture and everyday life,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement.
The achievement marks a significant moment in positioning Odisha’s indigenous food traditions on the global map, showcasing how Pakhala Bhat has evolved from a humble local staple to a symbol of cultural pride with worldwide relevance, said the department, which organised an event on Friday to mark the occasion.
Expressing happiness over the achievement, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi took to X and said, “With an unprecedented 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel, this historic achievement brings global recognition to Pakhala, one of Odisha’s most cherished traditional dishes, deeply rooted in our culture and daily life.”
He said this accomplishment reflects our commitment to promoting Odisha’s rich culinary heritage on the global stage. It is a proud moment for every Odia, as we take our timeless traditions from local to global, further strengthening Odisha’s identity as a hub of cultural and gastronomic excellence.
Notably, the Tourism Department organised the state-level “Pakhala Paraba (Festival)” at Panthanivas in Bhubaneswar on Friday to enhance the popularity of traditional summer delicacy, “Pakhala”.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Majhi emphasised that Pakhala is not just a food item, but an inseparable part of Odisha’s culture and tradition.
Before the programme officially began, the Chief Minister visited the Odia Food Festival at Panthanivas, appreciating nearly 326 varieties of Odia dishes. Majhi also partook in Pakhala along with all dignitaries’ present.
In a special attempt to set a Guinness World Record, the Tourism Department prepared 1,174 kg of Pakhala from 850 kg of rice, attracting widespread attention. The dish was distributed to more than 2,000 people from underprivileged communities, officials said.
