World Pakhala Day

World Pakhala Day (March 20): A Celebration of Odia Cultural Heritage

Sanjay Bhatt 

Pakhala, an integral part of Odia culinary tradition, is widely recognized for its uniqueness. This dish is so popular that it has piqued curiosity among people from other states as well. Pakhala is a simple yet nutritious meal that helps keep the body refreshed and cool during hot days.

The Celebration of World Pakhala Day

March 20 is observed as World Pakhala Day, a unique initiative that originated in Odisha. This day serves as an opportunity for Odias worldwide to introduce and promote their rich food culture to people from different regions and countries. The celebration aims to highlight Odisha’s culinary heritage on a global scale.

Types of Pakhala and Its Benefits

Pakhala is essentially prepared by soaking cooked rice in water. Some of its main varieties include:

Saadha Pakhala – Plain rice soaked in water overnight.

Dahi Pakhala – Pakhala mixed with curd and salt, creating a refreshing dish.

Basi Pakhala – Fermented overnight, this variant aids digestion and provides a cooling effect.

Jala Pakhala – A completely natural, liquid-based form of Pakhala.

Consuming Pakhala helps maintain body temperature, supports hydration, and improves digestion. Particularly beneficial during summer, it provides comfort and energy to the body.

Pakhala Festivals Across Odisha

1. Restaurants and Hotels in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Sambalpur, and Berhampur prepare special Pakhala menus for the day.

2. Households celebrate by preparing different varieties of Pakhala and enjoying it as part of a festive meal.

3. Cultural organizations and online communities mark the occasion with events and campaigns using the hashtag #PakhalaDibas.

Conclusion

World Pakhala Day is not just a food festival; it is a cultural tribute to Odisha’s heritage and culinary traditions. It offers Odias a chance to take pride in their roots and share their traditional cuisine with the world.

So, let’s celebrate on March 20 by enjoying Pakhala and showcasing this cherished aspect of Odia culture to the world!