Bhubanewar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik called upon all Odias residing in different parts of the world to join hands to prove the prominence of 'brand' Odisha.

Addressing the inaugural event of  the two-day Global Odia Mahotsav 2020 on December 26 virtually, Patnaik said, "We all are one family, though we live in different parts of the world. Mo Parivar of Odisha Government is meant to connect Odias around the world. All Odias should unite and build brand Odisha globally."

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan pressed for the need of concerted efforts to strengthen the economy. He said, " Lord Jagannath himself is the brand of Odisha and the identity of Odia community. We have a golden opportunity to prove and promote the glory of the state on the world stage." The Minister also stressed on preparation for a visionary roadmap as Odisha is going to complete 100 years of its formation as a language-based state.

Puri King Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb said the mankind can achieve victory through both moral and intellectual development. He also stressed on the need for development of both spiritual and the materialistic aspects of life to build a healthy and safe society.

On the occasion,  Kenyan MP Dr Swarup Ranjan Mishra proposed for establishment of a healthy relation between Kenya and Odisha, especially by collaborating in health, agriculture, mines, tourism, sports and industry sectors.

Mo Parivar Convenor Arup Patnaik called upon all the participants of the event to prepare a  digital directory containing contact details of Odias across the globe.

For building brand  Odisha at international level, Odisha Higher Education Minister Dr Arun Mishra stressed on the need to achieve highest standard in education and art and culture through skills of micro teaching.

At valedictory session of event,  Odisha Society of the Americas president yesterday Kuku Das  also spoke on the outfit's aim to prove Odisha and Odias as 'best' globally.

The two-day Global Odia Mahotsav 2020, virtually organised by  Odisha Society of the Americas in association with The Odia Diaspora from Around The World, aimed at promoting and propagating language, culture and heritage of Odisha globally and developing a global synergy to contribute to various sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, skill development, entrepreneurship, etc.

The event also aimed at build a global network for inclusive progression of Odias around the world.