In a move to promote cultural heritage and preserve traditional festivities, the Odisha government has announced financial assistance for Durga Puja committees across the state, offering grants of up to ₹1.10 lakh each. The decision was confirmed by Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Promoting Odisha’s Cultural Heritage
Speaking at a press briefing, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the initiative aims to support and encourage community participation in the grand celebration of Durga Puja — one of Odisha’s most celebrated cultural and religious festivals. “This decision is part of our continued effort to preserve Odisha’s rich cultural traditions and heritage,” the minister stated.
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Durga Puja, which brings together art, devotion, and community spirit, is celebrated with grandeur across the state. The government’s financial support is expected to help committees manage expenses related to decorations, traditional rituals, and public safety arrangements.
Three Categories of Durga Puja Committees(Odisha Government Announces Financial Aid )
To ensure fair distribution of funds, the Durga Puja committees have been categorized into three groups based on their age and heritage value:
- Heritage Durga Pujas
- These are some of the oldest and most culturally significant celebrations in Odisha.
- Each heritage Puja will receive ₹1.10 lakh in assistance.
- A total of 215 committees fall under this category.
- Durga Pujas Over 75 Years Old
- These long-standing committees have been preserving traditional practices for decades.
- Each of them will receive ₹75,000 in financial aid.
- There are 197 such committees in the state.
- Durga Pujas Over 50 Years Old
- These committees represent the newer yet equally important generation of traditional celebrations.
- Each of these will get ₹50,000 in assistance.
- The government identified 673 committees in this group.
Over 1,000 Committees to Benefit
In total, 1,085 Durga Puja committees across Odisha will receive the government’s support this year. The total expenditure for the initiative has been estimated at ₹7.14 crore.
Minister Suraj emphasized that this funding is not just about financial assistance but a recognition of the cultural importance of these festivities. “Our goal is to preserve the sanctity of our age-old traditions while ensuring that celebrations remain inclusive, safe, and vibrant,” he said.
Boost for Local Communities and Artisans
The decision is expected to significantly benefit local artisans, decorators, and performers who depend on the festival season for their livelihoods. From idol makers and painters to musicians and lighting experts, Durga Puja generates employment opportunities across the state.
With the government’s financial assistance, many smaller committees that struggled with rising costs in recent years will be able to organize events on a larger scale. The initiative is also likely to boost the local economy, as markets for flowers, fabrics, and ornaments see a sharp rise in activity during the festive season.
Encouraging Cultural Tourism
Odisha has been working to position itself as a cultural tourism hub, and Durga Puja plays a key role in attracting visitors. Major cities like Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Rourkela witness large crowds during the festival, with elaborately themed pandals and traditional rituals drawing tourists from across India.
READ ASLO- Why Odisha’s New Panchayat Rules Are Facing Backlash | ExplainedBy supporting heritage Durga Pujas, the state government hopes to enhance Odisha’s cultural image and showcase its deep-rooted traditions to a wider audience.
Government’s Commitment to Tradition
This latest announcement underscores the Odisha government’s ongoing commitment to promoting traditional festivals and cultural programs. Similar assistance schemes have been extended in the past for folk festivals and temple fairs.
Minister Suraj reiterated that the government will continue to work closely with community organizers to ensure the safe and inclusive celebration of religious events. “Durga Puja is not just a festival — it is a celebration of our identity, devotion, and unity,” he added.
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