Cheer Up Foundation hosted an unforgettable Odisha Divas at the Chinmaya Mission in Southern California

California :7/4/25: In an exemplary display of cultural solidarity and charitable spirit, the Cheer Up Foundation hosted an unforgettable Odisha Divas at the Chinmaya Mission in Southern California on March 29. This enriching event aimed to bring the community together, celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Odisha, and raise funds for noble causes.

The eventful day it commenced with a heartfelt Welcome Message and a Lamp Lighting by Swami Ishwarananda, complemented by the resonantBhagvadGeeta chanting of children – a gesture symbolizing the light of knowledge and unity.

A soul-stirring Group Song ‘Ame Utkala Matira Santana’ for Motherland initiated the cultural journey, after which the Melody Musical by Kids brightened the stage with their talents, reinforcing the importance of nurturing the arts from a young age. Kidsdrama, ’Mati’ written by Padma Shri RadhamohanGadnaikfilled the audience with the moral message of humility, tolerance, and equanimity as the key to graceful life.

During a presentation, the audience was pleased to learn how the Cheer Up Foundation is making a difference in remote Odisha. It was followed by the segment, ‘Odisha: Land of Celebration’musical dance drama segment, which brought the essence of Odisha’s festivals and cultural dances to life. ‘Navarasa’, a classical Odissi dance performance, by Sharanya Mukhopadhyay and Guru Ramesh Chandra Jena (Orissa Dance Academy), was a testament to the grace and storytelling depth of the art form.

A Wisdom Talk by Swami Ishwarananda sheds light on the importance of tolerance, unity, understanding, and continuing India’s role as a spiritual guide to the world. He stressed the fact that true strength lies in flexibility to accommodate other’s values, religion, and traditions. He emphasized the need to pass this rich cultural heritage to the younger generations, ensuring its preservation and reverence on a global scale.

The event was also privileged to witness a performance by an eminent singer from Odisha, Aurosish Pani, whose artistry in Classical, Sufi, Bhajan and Ghazal and Film songs has received national accolades. His presence and performance were not just entertainment but an embodiment of Odisha’s and India’s profound musical traditions.

High School students played a major role in volunteering. In honor of late Mrs. Baidehi Mishra (Odisha), Cheer Up Foundation invited high school students to participate in an Essay competition on the theme “Women’s Health – A Global Issue.

The evening concluded with a traditional Odia Dinner, where guests reflected on the cultural immersion they had experienced and the charitable cause they had supported. It was a successful culmination of an event that will leave lasting impressions and inspire continued cultural appreciation and philanthropic endeavors.