Odisha Film Fare Awards: A Long-Awaited Recognition for Odia Cinema Returns This 17th

Bhubaneswar: After a hiatus of over three years, the prestigious Odisha Film Fare Awards are set to return, honoring the best of Odia cinema on November 17. This announcement, shared by Odisha’s Minister of Language, Literature, and Culture, Surjyabanshi Suraj, has generated excitement across the film industry as the awards ceremony aims to recognize exceptional talent and creativity. 

Awards Revived After Long Pause 

The Odisha Film Fare Awards, an esteemed recognition of cinematic excellence in the state, have faced delays since 2020. Minister Surjyabanshi Suraj explained that due to unforeseen interruptions, awards for the past three years (2020, 2021, and 2022) had not been presented. Last August, a comprehensive notification announced the reopening of the 32nd, 33rd, and 34th Odisha State Film Awards for these years. This revival signifies a fresh start, aiming to bring back Odia cinema’s rich storytelling into the spotlight. 
The minister further emphasized that this year’s awards will be presented in line with national standards, which will uplift the prestige and quality of the event. Following the selection process by an esteemed panel of judges, the winners across various categories will be announced and awarded for their exceptional contributions to the Odia film industry. 

Anticipation Grows for Award Ceremony 

The awards night on November 17 will be a high-profile event in Bhubaneswar, celebrating the resilience of Odia cinema and its artists. Sources close to the department reveal that all preparations are nearing completion. The award ceremony will provide a platform for Odia cinema to gain wider recognition, supporting both established and emerging talents in the industry. Notably, the awards also reflect Odisha's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting its rich film landscape. 

Steps to Strengthen Odia Language and Culture 

Minister Surjyabanshi Suraj also highlighted other initiatives aimed at strengthening Odia language and culture, especially through digital transformation. He emphasized ongoing efforts to digitize Odia literature, bring the language closer to younger generations, and strengthen Odia cultural institutions. By integrating digital resources, the department hopes to sustain Odisha’s language heritage and make it more accessible. 
Another significant project, the “Kalamandal Complex,” dedicated to art and cultural promotion in Gajapati Nagar, Bhubaneswar, is on track to be completed by April 2025. The complex aims to serve as a central hub for cultural activities, promoting the Odia arts in a modern setting. 

Preserving Odia Identity 

Efforts to preserve Odia identity remain a priority for the state, with the department actively working to ensure the language’s prominence in all administrative and educational domains. The Odia Language Institution and other government offices are continuously working to celebrate and promote Odia identity in all aspects of daily life. 
The Odisha Film Fare Awards return is an essential step towards bolstering Odia cinema’s impact while creating an enduring legacy for future generations. With Odia culture and film under the spotlight, the event promises to be an inspiring celebration of the state’s creative talent.