A vibrant slice of Odisha came to life in the heart of Toronto during the recent India Day celebrations at Nathan Philips Square. An extraordinary 53-feet long and 8.5-ft wide tableau featuring the captivating theme of ‘Boita Bandana’ garnered attention and admiration, securing the third prize at the event. This visually captivating tableau, adorning a trailer, encapsulated Odisha’s essence with artistry, culture, and tradition.
The tableau’s meticulous craftsmanship showcased diverse facets of Odisha’s cultural tapestry. From iconic landmarks like the Jagannath Temple and the mesmerizing Konark wheel to the familiar sight of boats and the revered tulsi plant that graces every Odia household, the tableau embodied the soul of Odisha. Notably, the presence of President Droupadi Murmu added a touch of prestige and honor to the presentation.
This splendid achievement was the collaborative endeavor of the Odisha Society of Canada and the Canada-Odisha Society of Americans (Canosa). The project’s journey commenced a commendable 10 days before the event, as passionate volunteers converged to bring this vision to life. Spearheaded by Sanjay Dalai, an IT professional and an event volunteer, the effort translated into a tangible manifestation of Odisha’s rich culture and heritage.
The tableau’s creation was a labor of love, blending craftsmanship and creativity. Eight dedicated individuals invested a week’s worth of effort to construct the float, employing a medley of materials including wood, cardboard, canvas, handloom fabrics, acrylic colors, flowers, and the renowned Pipili appliqué work. The tableau’s artistic masterpieces were brought to life by accomplished artists Krishnanda Mohanty, Sunil Das, Suchandra Patra, and Srinivas Rao.
During the procession, around 15 individuals adorned the tableau while many others walked alongside, adding a dynamic presence to the presentation. The collaboration between the two Odia organizations was driven by the shared goal of promoting Odia culture. Anchored in the theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – emphasizing the unity of the world as one family – the tableau radiated harmony and global interconnectedness.
Cultural richness flowed through every facet of the event, with six talented dancers from the Ujjaini Dance Academy, trained by Anupama Saha, gracing the stage with the elegance of Odissi dance. Additionally, seven Odia dancers showcased a contemporary dance composition crafted by Dikhya Tripathy. The culinary aspect was equally enchanting, as a diverse array of delectable treats drew visitors to the food stall. The meticulously crafted platter featured delights like bara-sambar, mutton kasa, and samosa, catering to both Odia palates and broader Indian tastes.
The presence of Canosa president Kamalakanta Behera during the event underscored the significance of this remarkable cultural exchange. The tableau’s success served as a testament to the enduring spirit of Odisha, its vibrant culture, and the power of collaboration to transcend geographical boundaries.
Prasanta Patnaik