Kolkata: As part of the vibrant and spiritual Rath Yatra & Odisha Festival 2025, a heartwarming celebration of food and culture unfolded with the Khiri Pitha Competition, organized by Utkala, the cultural wing of Sri Jagannath Seva Samiti, Kidderpore. Held at Northern Park, Bhawanipur, on Friday, 4th July, the event brought together over 35 culinary enthusiasts from Odisha and West Bengal, celebrating Odisha’s beloved traditional dessert—Khiri Pitha.
A Sweet Homage to Odia Cuisine
Khiri Pitha, a delectable dessert made from rice, jaggery, coconut, and milk, holds a special place in Odia households, especially during festivals like Rath Yatra. This competition aimed to revive and promote Odisha’s age-old culinary practices, bringing them to the urban spotlight.
“This competition is not merely about food—it’s a way to honour our roots, reconnect with our cultural identity, and inspire the next generation to preserve our traditions,” said Mr. Chandrasekhar Panigrahi, President of Shri Jagannath Seva Samiti, Khidirpur.
Culinary Competition: Spirit of Tradition and Innovation
Participants prepared Khiri Pitha in various styles—some adhering strictly to traditional recipes, while others added a modern twist. The entries were judged by an esteemed panel that included:
- Palash Sarkar – Renowned Food Critic
- Pradip Rozario – Celebrity Chef & Culinary Consultant
- Raajdeep Bhattacharya – Cultural Commentator & Writer
The dishes were evaluated based on authenticity, flavour, texture, presentation, and overall connectivity to Odia culinary heritage.
Winners of the Khiri Pitha Competition 2025
- 1st Prize: Madhumita Das (Bhubaneswar, Odisha)
For her temple-style Khiri Pitha prepared using heirloom rice, palm jaggery, and coconut cooked over wood fire. The authenticity and nostalgic aroma impressed all. - 2nd Prize: Pritha Sen (Kolkata, West Bengal)
For presenting a saffron-infused Khiri Pitha topped with chopped dry fruits and a delicate hint of rose—beautifully combining innovation and tradition. - 3rd Prize: Rupalata Nayak (Cuttack, Odisha)
For reviving a lesser-known rural variant using sun-dried coconut and jaggery syrup—a lost flavour brought back to life.
Each winner received a recognition certificate, memento, and gift hampers, applauded by the audience for their dedication and artistry.
Organizing Team
The successful coordination of the event was led by:
- Alaka Mohanty
- Rajalaxmi Swain
- Gajendra Swain
Their efforts ensured a seamless experience for participants and guests alike.
Part of the Odisha Festival 2025
The competition was a featured event of the 7-day-long Odisha Festival (28 June – 4 July 2025), organized alongside Kolkata’s Rath Yatra celebrations. The festival included:
- Classical & folk dance performances
- Devotional music by local and visiting artists
- Handicraft and textile exhibitions
- Spiritual discourses
- Traditional Odia food stalls
Thousands of devotees, culture lovers, and residents gathered to celebrate Lord Jagannath and the cultural essence of Odisha.
This celebration of sweet heritage is not only a culinary milestone but a cultural statement—Khiri Pitha is not just food, it’s emotion, tradition, and legacy on a plate.
