Bhubaneswar, May 2: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday attended a special screening of the Odia film 'Kangula' in Bhubaneswar and lauded it for portraying Odisha’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradhan said the film, inspired by the lifestyle and spiritual beliefs of 'Danduas' from Kangula village in Angul district, presents an authentic reflection of Odia culture. “Films like ‘Kangula’ will help preserve faith and devotion in society,” he said.

He emphasised that Odia cinema is not merely a medium of entertainment but also a vehicle for social messaging and cultural movements. The film, based on the traditional 'Danda Nacha' ritual and the reverence for Goddess Kali, showcases a rooted narrative from Odisha with strong cultural elements, he added.

The screening was held at Hotel Padmaja in Bhubaneswar in the presence of the film’s lead actor Sambeet Acharya, director Aswin Tripathy and other members of the production team.

In a post on social media, Pradhan said he had the opportunity to watch the special screening of ‘Kangula’, describing it as a unique and bold effort to take Odisha’s art and culture to a global audience. He extended his congratulations to the director, producer and the entire team associated with the film.

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“Cinema is not just a means of entertainment but a powerful medium of social messaging and movement. I firmly believe such efforts to promote our art and culture globally will succeed,” he added.

Earlier in the day, the Union Minister attended a two-day workshop, “Pragyan Prerana” on NEP implementation in Bhubaneswar. The event, organised by the Higher Education Department of the Odisha government, was attended by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, vice-chancellors, academicians and faculty members from across institutions.