Bhubaneswar: Odisha has reached a historic global milestone by securing a Guinness World Record for the largest serving of fermented rice, known as Pakhala, weighing 1,174 kg, prepared and presented in a single vessel on the occasion of ‘Pakhala Dibasa’.
The Department of Tourism stated, “This remarkable feat not only celebrates Odisha’s rich culinary heritage but also brings international recognition to Pakhala, an iconic traditional dish deeply embedded in the state’s culture and everyday life.”
This achievement is a significant moment for showcasing Odisha’s indigenous food traditions on the global stage, highlighting how Pakhala Bhat has transformed from a local staple to a symbol of cultural pride with worldwide relevance, according to the department, which organized an event on Friday to commemorate the occasion.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his delight over the achievement on X, stating, “With an unprecedented 1,174 kg prepared and presented in a single vessel, this historic achievement brings global recognition to Pakhala, one of Odisha’s most cherished traditional dishes, deeply rooted in our culture and daily life.”
He added, “This accomplishment reflects our commitment to promoting Odisha’s rich culinary heritage on the global stage. It is a proud moment for every Odia, as we take our timeless traditions from local to global, further strengthening Odisha’s identity as a hub of cultural and gastronomic excellence.”
The Tourism Department notably organized the state-level “Pakhala Paraba (Festival)” at Panthanivas in Bhubaneswar on Friday to enhance the popularity of the traditional summer delicacy, Pakhala.
During the event, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that Pakhala is not merely a food item but an integral part of Odisha’s culture and tradition.
Prior to the official commencement of the program, the Chief Minister visited the Odia Food Festival at Panthanivas, where he appreciated nearly 326 varieties of Odia dishes. Majhi also enjoyed Pakhala along with all the dignitaries present.
In a special effort to set a Guinness World Record, the Tourism Department prepared 1,174 kg of Pakhala using 850 kg of rice, which attracted significant attention. The dish was distributed to over 2,000 individuals from underprivileged communities, as reported by officials.
