Odisha Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj promotes Fit India Movement via unique Heritage Marathon

As part of the ongoing ‘Odia Pakhya’ celebrations, the Sports and Youth Services Department of Odisha on Saturday organised the “Aitihya Ganadouda” ( heritage marathon) in Bhubaneswar. Starting from the historic Khandagiri caves and concluding at Kalinga Studio Square, the marathon drew participation from hundreds of enthusiastic citizens.

The marathon was flagged off by Suryabanshi Suraj, Odisha’s Sports Minister, along with former track and field athlete Anuradha Biswal and cyclist Minati Mohapatra. The event was marked by the exuberance of cultural performances, spirited participation and a deep sense of cultural pride.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Suraj said, “Odisha’s Sports and Youth Department today organsied a Heritage Marathon across Odisha to celebrate ‘Odia Pakhya’. Via this Marathon across various heritage sites in Odisha, we not only want to promote Odisha culture, but also want to spread awareness about protecting these places and keeping them clean. Further, this marathon is also promoting Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision for Fit India and spreading awareness about fitness across the country.”

He then went on to add, “Beyond the Heritage Marathon, Odisha aims to connect with its 4.5 crore Odias and inspire them to incorporate fitness into their daily lives, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a Fit India.”

The Odisha government had announced the grand celebration of ‘Odia Pakhya’ from April 1 (Odisha Day) to April 14 (Odia New Year). This 14-day celebration aims to promote Odia language, literature, culture and heritage through various programs across the state, from the block level to the state level.