New Delhi, Nov 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that Odisha's rich culture has greatly contributed to keeping Bharat's diversity alive. 

The Prime Minister graced as the chief guest at the concluding ceremony of Odisha Parba-2024 organized for three days by Odisha Samaja at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the national capital. 

An atmosphere of Odia pride and glory surrounded the entire stadium area as the PM wished all the people present at the programme in Odia. Terming the event as the "Mahakumba of Odisha's Culture, he expressed happiness to attend the event. 

The Prime Minister paid homage to Swabhav Kabi Gangadhar Meher ahead of his 100th Year Punya Tithi (Death Anniversary). He remembered Bhakta Dasia Bauri,  Bhakta Kabi Salabeg and Odia Bhagabat writer Jagannath Dash and paid respects to them. 
He talked about Sarala Mahabharata and Odia Bhagabata and exclaimed how these epics, written in simple language, reached every house and contributed to enlivening the Bharat's Culture. 

"Odisha's rich culture has greatly contributed to keeping Bharat's diversity alive," the PM contended. 

On the occasion, he was elated to narrate the story of Kanchi Abhiyan. He explained how Lord Jagannath came out of Shreemandir along with His elder brother Lord Balabhadra and went to fight in favour of King Purushottam Dev in Kanchi. He also narrated how Lord Jagannath took curd from His devotee Manika Gouduni on His way to Kanchi. 

He said the story of Kanchi Abhiyan teaches many things. One thing is that we must not feel alone. We should always feel the god is with us. 

Remembering the great lines of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi- "Mo Jiban Pachhe Narke Padithau, Jagat Uddhar Heu,", the Prime Minister said, "This is the real culture of Odisha. Odisha has served all states, the country, and humanity."

Asserting that Odisha heroes contributed a lot to the freedom struggle, the Prime Minister said the country can't repay the sacrifices of Paika Heros. He said he was fortunate to release postage stamps and 'sikka' on Paikas.

Besides, he remembered Utkal Keshari Harekrushna Mahatab's contribution to nation-building. He boasted saying that the country is celebrating the 125th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Mahatab in a big way.