18/10/2026
Share:
18/10/2026
Share:
KUWAIT CITY, Oct 18: In a celebration that brought the spirit of Odisha to the heart of Kuwait, the Kuwait Odisha Association (KOA), under the guidance and support of the Embassy of India in Kuwait, hosted a memorable Nuakhai Bhetghat, introducing one of Odisha's most cherished harvest traditions to the Indian diaspora while conveying a timeless message of gratitude, togetherness and universal brotherhood.
The initiative received encouraging messages from several distinguished leaders and personalities. The Hon'ble President of Republic of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, extended her appreciation for the event. Congratulatory messages were also received from Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Leader of Opposition Shri Naveen Patnaik, Hockey India President Shri Dilip Tirkey, Padma Shri awardee Dr. Haladhar Nag, and former diaspora member Dr. Asit Mohanty.
The event was inaugurated by Her Excellency Mrs. Paramita Tripathi, Ambassador of India to Kuwait, through the ceremonial lighting of the lamp in the presence of First Secretary Shri Manas Raj Patel, KOA President Shri Asimananda Mund, Vice President Smt. Minoo Padhy, and Senior Advisor Shri Girija Nandan Panda.
More than a cultural gathering, the celebration served as a tribute to humanity's oldest relationship: the bond between the earth that sustains us, the families that nurture us, the communities that unite us, and the Divine to whom we express our gratitude.
Deeply rooted in Odisha's cultural heritage, Nuakhai is one of the state's most important festivals, celebrated predominantly in Sambalpur and neighboring regions. The festival's name itself reflects its essence: "Nua" means new and "Khai" means to eat, symbolizing the ceremonial consumption of the season's first harvest.
The tradition highlights Odisha's rich agricultural heritage and acknowledges that a successful harvest is never the result of human effort alone. Sunlight, rain, fertile soil, the changing seasons, the hard work of farmers, and the blessings of nature all contribute to the food that reaches our tables.
The Nuakhai Bhetghat organized by KOA provided an opportunity for the Odia community in Kuwait to celebrate its unique cultural identity while contributing to Kuwait's vibrant multicultural society. The cultural evening featured a traditional feast, classical and folk dance performances, and enthusiastic participation from community members, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
The event also carried a broader message: to encourage families to remain closely connected, inspire younger generations to cherish their heritage, foster inclusiveness among communities, and promote greater respect for nature.
One Earth. Many Cultures. Countless Traditions. One Shared Responsibility - to receive the gifts of life with gratitude and leave the world more generous, compassionate and harmonious for future generations.
Through this celebration, the Kuwait Odisha Association successfully carried the spirit of Odisha beyond its homeland and into the wider global community.
Expressing his gratitude, KOA President Shri Asimananda Mund thanked The Hon'ble President of Republic of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Leader of Opposition Shri Naveen Patnaik, Hockey India President Shri Dilip Tirkey, Padma Shri Dr. Haladhar Nag, Ambassador of India to Kuwait Mrs. Paramita Tripathi, First Secretary (HOC, Community Welfare & Labour) Shri Manas Raj Patel , all officers and officials of the Indian Embassy, and the event sponsors including Fouad Al Ghanim & Sons Holding Group of Companies, Al Mulla Exchange, and Predlabs Private Limited .
He also acknowledged the support of representatives from professional organizations such as IBPC, ICAI Kuwait Chapter, Forum of Indian Doctors, INFOK, other community organizations, and, most importantly, the Odia community in Kuwait for their enthusiastic participation through messages, videos, and personal presence
