Odisha Women Fest 2025 was successfully organized by STHAPANA Charitable Trust at Jayadev Bhawan Auditorium, Bhubaneswar, on 9th March 2025. This prestigious event was a tribute to the resilience, achievements, and aspirations of women across the state, reflecting Odisha’s rich legacy of empowered women. It honored historical figures such as Queen Karubaki and the revolutionaries of the Paika Rebellion, along with modern trailblazers like Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, Nandini Satpathy, and Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.
More than just a celebration, Odisha Women Fest 2025 symbolized a movement—a harmonious blend of Odisha’s cultural heritage and contemporary aspirations. The event sought to ensure that the spirit of Odia women continues to inspire and drive meaningful change for future generations.
Inaugural Function
The program commenced at 11:00 AM with the arrival of esteemed guests and a welcome address by Smt. Nibedita Nayak, Founder of STHAPANA Charitable Trust.
The fest began with a mesmerizing Odissi dance performance titled Nabadurga by Ms. Pallavi Pradhan, depicting the nine divine forms of Goddess Durga and symbolizing strength, femininity, and cosmic energy.
This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and thought-provoking speeches by distinguished guests:
- GUEST OF HONOUR: Dr. Narayan Mohanty, Former Lieutenant General, Indian Army (PVSM, AVSM, VSM)
- CHIEF SPEAKER: Hon’ble Sj. Biswanath Rath, Chairman, Ratnabhandar Committee, Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri; Chairman, Law Commission of Odisha; Former Judge, Orissa High Court
- CHIEF GUEST: Smt. Smruti Mishra, Senior Advocate, Calcutta High Court
- CHIEF GUEST: Dr. Sabita Acharya, First Lady Vice-Chancellor, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar
Women achievers from diverse fields, including education, entrepreneurship, law, arts, and social service, were honored for their remarkable contributions.
- SWAPNA BINODINI SAMMANA 2025 WINNER: Dr. Jayashree Mohapatra – Doctor & Health Coach
- Smt. Sarita Panda – Women Rights Advocate, President Odisha Ganjam District Board (IHRC)
- Smt. Aparna Mishra – Entrepreneur, Founder of Sigree Restaurant
- Dr. Swaty Dash – Associate Professor, GITA College of Engineering & Founder, CH Academy
- Smt. Sarmila Sahoo – Editor & Publisher, SINDHUJA (Odia Monthly Magazine)
- Dr. Sandhya Patnaik – International Singer & Fashion Designer
- Smt. Aarti Patel – Founder of Rangi (Handloom Accessories)
- Smt. Sumitra Mahapatra – Skin & Beauty Consultant, Founder of “Devine”
- Dr. Pinakshi Bag – Professor (OB & HRD), Ganesh Institute of Management Studies
- Smt. Smaranika Mohanty – Founder & Chairman, Tammana
- Smt. Nivedita Satpathy – Secretary, Women’s Council for Socio-Economic Welfare & Founder, Meri Sakhi Counselling Desk
- Smt. Sasmita Senapati – Social Worker, Entrepreneur
- Smt. Manorama Pal – Social Worker, Entrepreneur
- Smt. Kanaklata Sutar – Managing Director – Odisha Producers Group Corporation, Jagatsinghpur District
- Smt. Manjulata Mishra – Secretary, Subarna Narijagrana, Sonepur
- Smt. Indumati Purohit – Social Worker
- Smt. Smruti Mishra – Senior Advocate, Calcutta High Court
- Smt. Babita Swain – Social Worker, Entrepreneur
- Smt. Monika Mohanty – Senior Journalist & News Anchor (News 7)
Handloom Showcase
A Handloom Showcase presented by ‘Rangi’ celebrated Odisha’s exquisite textile heritage. The presentation featured a stunning array of handwoven clothing and accessories, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics.
Panel Discussion: Sambad Shatarupa
The event featured an insightful panel discussion, Sambad Shatarupa, bringing together leading women professionals, entrepreneurs, and social activists. Panelists included:
- Dr. Jayashree Mohapatra – Doctor, Health Coach, & President Award Winner (Horse Riding)
- Prof. P. Yashodhara – Former Dean, OUAT; Former HOD, Ramadevi Autonomous College; Chief Coordinator, IGNOU
- Smt. Sukhvinder Kaur – Senior Advocate, Orissa High Court
- Smt. Kumkum Devi – Philanthropist, Entrepreneur
- Smt. Bishnupriya Sahoo – Entrepreneur, Homemaker
- Smt. Swaty Dash – Associate Professor, GITA College of Engineering & Founder, CH Academy
- Dr. Anasuya Rath – Educationist, Capital Law College Bhubaneswar; Odia Classical Vocalist
- Smt. Smaranika Mohanty – Founder of Tammana, leading socio-cultural initiatives
- Smt. Meena Maharana – President, Subarna Nari Jagaran Kendra, Sonepur
- Smt. Nivedita Satpathy – Secretary, Women’s Council for Socio-Economic Welfare
- Smt. Shanta Rath – Entrepreneur, Social Worker
The discussion addressed women’s empowerment, gender-based challenges, sexual harassment, and the need for collective action in fostering a supportive and progressive society.
Post-Lunch Session
The second half of the program began with a digital presentation, introduced by Shri Saroj Kumar Bhuyan, Secretary of STHAPANA Charitable Trust. He provided an overview of the event and coordinated cultural and theatrical performances, seamlessly aligning them with the festival’s theme.
Cultural Performances
The cultural segment featured powerful performances addressing women’s struggles and triumphs:
- Nukkad Drama by Students of Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan National Institute of Law – A compelling street play highlighting the challenges and systemic harassment faced by women, advocating for social reform.
- Traditional Attire Showcase – Led by Odia actress Mamali Mishra and her team, this presentation showcased Jagannath Temple’s traditional attire worn by Odia women, celebrating Odisha’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Short Play by Sangha Sree Foundation, Puri – Led by Smt. Sabita Mishra, this performance shed light on domestic violence, raising awareness about its psychological and social impact and the importance of empowering survivors.
- Theatrical & Dance Drama by Tapoban Cultural Troop – Directed by Smt. Minati Praharaj and Sri Jogendra Dakua, this presentation paid homage to Odisha’s rich cultural traditions.
Felicitation & Closing Ceremony
The event concluded with the distribution of mementos and certificates to participants for their outstanding contributions.
In the final session, Dr. Sandhya Patnaik, an eminent international singer, delivered a melodious performance, leaving the audience deeply moved. Her soulful rendition provided a fitting and uplifting conclusion to an inspiring event.
