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🌺🙏 Bhandara on Ganesh Chaturthi – Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti (27th August 2025)

On 27th August 2025, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti joyfully organised a Bhandara on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, a festival that marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom and prosperity. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from DONKS members, families, children, and well-wishers, creating a spiritually uplifting and culturally vibrant atmosphere.

The celebration began early in the morning with the installation of a beautifully crafted idol of Bhagwan Ganesh, adorned with fresh flowers, durva grass, sandal paste, and traditional Odia decorations. The venue echoed with chants of “Ganapati Bappa Morya” as members gathered to offer prayers and seek blessings for peace, progress, and harmony within the community.

A special Ganesh Puja was conducted, during which members participated in pushpanjali, aarti, and devotional singing. Senior members of DONKS highlighted the significance of Ganesh Chaturthi in Odia culture and its symbolism of new beginnings, clearing life’s obstacles, and strengthening the bond of unity within the community. The divine ambiance of the puja set a sacred tone for the day.

Following the rituals, DONKS organised a Bhandara (community feast) open to all attendees. Delicious traditional dishes, prepared with affection and devotion, were served to devotees. The meal included favorites such as khichdi, dalma, pakhala, poori, sabji, kheer, and seasonal fruits—reflecting the warmth and hospitality of Odia culinary traditions. Members worked collaboratively in the kitchen and serving counters, ensuring the feast was conducted smoothly, gracefully, and with heartfelt service.

Children played an active role in the event, helping with decorations, welcoming guests, and participating in small cultural activities. Their joyful involvement brought extra liveliness to the celebration. Some members also recited devotional bhajans dedicated to Lord Ganesha, creating a soulful musical environment filled with devotion and gratitude.

During the concluding session, the Chairperson expressed appreciation to all volunteers for their meticulous planning, teamwork, and dedication. She emphasized that festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi offer DONKS an opportunity not only to uphold cultural traditions but also to foster stronger community bonds and encourage collective service. A special note of thanks was extended to donors and supporters who contributed to the Bhandara.

The event concluded with a final aarti and distribution of prasad, accompanied by blessings and good wishes for health, prosperity, and the successful endeavors of all members. Devotees departed with hearts full of devotion and a renewed sense of unity.

The Bhandara on Ganesh Chaturthi, 27th August 2025, was a beautiful blend of spirituality, service, culture, and community bonding—truly reflecting the values that Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti stands for. With each celebration, DONKS continues to preserve Odisha’s rich heritage while nurturing togetherness among its members in the capital city.

💧🌿 Tanka Torani Water Distribution 

On 27th June 2025, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti organised a refreshing and socially impactful Tanka Torani Water Distribution Drive, offering cool, traditional Odia beverages to the public during the peak summer heat. This community service initiative was aimed at providing relief to daily commuters, labourers, and passers-by who suffer the most during Delhi’s scorching temperatures.

The drive reflected DONKS’ commitment to seva (service) and compassion, rooted deeply in Odia culture where offering water to the thirsty (paniya seva) is considered an act of great virtue.

The event was held outdoors at a busy public location, where members set up a neat distribution counter decorated with banners and earthen pots. The highlight of the day was the traditional Tanka Torani a refreshing Odia drink made from rice water (pakhala pana) infused with curd, lemon, mint, roasted cumin, and rock salt. Prepared lovingly by DONKS members, the drink not only cooled the body but also reminded many Odias living in Delhi of the flavours of home.

The drive began in the morning as members, wearing DONKS identity badges, welcomed people with warm smiles and offered glasses of chilled Tanka Torani. Many labourers, rickshaw pullers, and street vendors expressed heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. Office-goers and daily commuters also stopped by, appreciating the cultural touch behind the simple yet meaningful initiative.

Members explained the significance of Tanka Torani how it not only hydrates but also replenishes electrolytes, making it a natural and healthy drink for summer. For many Delhi residents unfamiliar with Odia traditions, this became an interesting cultural introduction.

Children of DONKS members also participated enthusiastically by helping with serving, refilling pots, and maintaining cleanliness around the area. Their involvement added energy and charm to the event while teaching them the value of social service and empathy.

In addition to water distribution, members encouraged people to stay hydrated, protect themselves from heat exposure, and adopt eco-friendly practices such as using earthen pots instead of plastic bottles. The organising committee ensured that the entire activity was conducted in an environmentally responsible manner, avoiding single-use plastics.

The Chairperson thanked all volunteers for their dedicated efforts and highlighted that DONKS aims not only to preserve Odia festivals and culture but also to meaningfully contribute to community welfare through practical initiatives. She also expressed gratitude to donors and supporters whose contributions made the arrangement possible.

The Tanka Torani Water Distribution Drive on 27th June 2025 concluded with a positive impact on hundreds of individuals who received relief from the oppressive heat. It stood as a warm reminder that small acts of kindness can bring significant comfort, especially during challenging weather conditions.

Through this successful initiative, DONKS once again demonstrated its spirit of service, unity, and cultural pride carrying forward Odisha’s legacy of hospitality and compassion right here in the heart of Delhi.

🧘‍♀️🌍 International Yoga Day Celebration 

Theme: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”

On Saturday, 21st June 2025, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti proudly observed International Yoga Day, aligning with the global theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” The event aimed to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being while emphasizing the universal message that a healthy planet and healthy people are deeply interconnected.

Held in the morning hours to embrace the calmness of dawn, the session brought together DONKS members, children, families, and community participants. The serene outdoor venue was adorned with yoga mats, banners, and nature-inspired decor, creating the perfect ambience for mindfulness and rejuvenation.

The programme began with a warm welcome by the DONKS Chairperson, who reflected on yoga’s rich heritage within Indian culture and its growing significance in everyday life. She highlighted that “One Earth, One Health” conveys a powerful message when individuals adopt healthier lifestyles, they contribute to a healthier world. This vision aligns with DONKS’ dedication to community well-being and cultural preservation.

A certified yoga instructor led the session, beginning with deep breathing exercises (Pranayama) such as Anulom Vilom, Kapalbhati, and Bhramari, encouraging participants to connect breath with awareness. This was followed by a series of warm-up movements, preparing everyone for the main asanas. Participants then performed foundational yoga postures including:

• Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

• Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)

• Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)

• Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

• Vakrasana (Twist Pose)

• Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)

The graceful synchronisation of movements created a vibrant and peaceful atmosphere. Even first-time practitioners enjoyed the session, guided gently by instructors and senior members. Children enthusiastically participated, learning simple poses and chanting “Om,” demonstrating the inclusivity and family-friendly spirit of DONKS events.

A short meditation session followed, focusing on harmony, gratitude, and emotional balance. Participants were encouraged to carry this calmness into their daily routine, using yoga as a tool for inner strength and resilience.

After the yoga practice, a brief interaction was held where members discussed the health benefits of yoga—improved flexibility, reduced stress, stronger immunity, and enhanced mental clarity. Refreshments were served, adding to the warm community feeling of the morning.

The Chairperson concluded the event by thanking all participants and volunteers for making the Yoga Day celebration meaningful. She emphasized that practising yoga is not limited to one day; it is a lifelong journey of self-care, discipline, and mindfulness.

The International Yoga Day celebration on 21 June 2025 became a memorable and energizing experience for Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti. With its theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” the event beautifully reflected DONKS’ commitment to holistic well-being, environmental awareness, and strong, united community values.

🌸 International Women’s Day Celebration – Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti

On 8th March 2024, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti proudly celebrated International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to honouring the achievements, strength, and spirit of women across the world. The event brought together members of DONKS, community women, young girls, and guests, creating an empowering atmosphere filled with inspiration, unity, and cultural pride.

This year’s theme focused on women’s empowerment, leadership, and cultural identity, reflecting the values that DONKS stands for. The program began with a warm welcome by the Chairperson, who highlighted the remarkable contributions of women in families, workplaces, and society. She emphasized that Women’s Day is not just a celebration—it is a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality, self-reliance, and collective progress.

The event commenced with a devotional song invoking blessings for the well-being of women everywhere. This was followed by a thought-provoking talk by senior members on women’s health, financial independence, self-confidence, and the importance of creating support networks for urban Odia women living far from their native state. Guests shared personal stories of resilience and success, inspiring younger participants to dream big and believe in themselves.

A special highlight of the celebration was the cultural programme, where members showcased Odia traditional dance, folk songs, and poetry recitations dedicated to womanhood. Children also participated with enthusiasm, presenting short skits on women’s empowerment and the importance of education for girls. The cultural performances added colour and emotion to the event, reflecting the community’s deep cultural roots.

Interactive activities, including a “Know Your Rights” awareness quiz and fun team-building games, helped engage the participants while fostering friendship and unity among members. A small exhibition of handmade crafts, prepared by several DONKS women, displayed their creativity and entrepreneurial talent.

As part of DONKS’ commitment to social responsibility, the event included a felicitation ceremony, honouring women from diverse backgrounds who have contributed to community service, education, social welfare, or cultural preservation. Their recognition served as motivation for others to continue striving for excellence.

The program concluded with a collective pledge to support women’s education, respect, safety, and equal opportunities in all spheres of life. Members also promised to uplift each other, celebrate each other’s successes, and work together to build a stronger, more connected community of Odia women in Delhi.

The celebration ended with a group photo session, followed by refreshments and heartfelt exchanges among participants. The day served as a reminder that when women come together with purpose and solidarity, they create waves of positive change.

The International Women’s Day celebration on 8th March 2024 was a proud moment for Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti—an event that honoured womanhood, celebrated unity, and strengthened the collective spirit of empowerment that defines DONKS.

📚Saraswati Puja Celebration – Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti 

On 14th February 2024, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti celebrated Saraswati Puja, a revered festival dedicated to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, learning, and the arts. The celebration brought together DONKS members, children, students, and families in a beautifully coordinated event filled with devotion, tradition, and cultural harmony.

The venue was decorated with rangoli, fresh flowers, and traditional yellow and white colour themes symbolising purity and knowledge. The idol of Maa Saraswati was gracefully adorned with marigold garlands, seasonal blossoms, and traditional offerings, creating a serene and divine ambiance that uplifted everyone’s spirits.

The puja commenced in the morning with the priest performing Saraswati Vandana, chanting sacred mantras, and invoking blessings for wisdom and learning. Members and children participated in the rituals with folded hands, offering flowers and pushpanjali to the goddess. The sound of the conch shell and rhythmic chanting created a spiritual atmosphere that resonated with devotion and cultural pride.

Children were at the heart of the celebration. As per tradition, many of them participated in “Khadi Chuan”, a ceremony where young children are encouraged to begin writing or reading under the blessings of Maa Saraswati. Members guided the little ones to write their first letters or draw simple shapes, making it a memorable spiritual milestone for families.

The celebration also included a cultural programme, featuring children’s recitations, devotional songs, and small performances that highlighted the artistic and creative spirit encouraged by the goddess. Senior members shared brief messages on the significance of Saraswati Puja, emphasizing the value of education, discipline, and cultural preservation especially for Odia families living in Delhi.

As part of the community tradition, homemade prasad such as khiri, gaja, chuda ghasa, and fruits were distributed among all attendees. The sharing of prasad fostered warmth, unity, and togetherness among members and their families.

The event concluded with group photos, blessings for students appearing for upcoming exams, and a collective prayer wishing for knowledge, success, and harmony. Members expressed appreciation for the organising committee, who ensured that every ritual and arrangement upheld the cultural authenticity and spiritual essence of Saraswati Puja.

The Saraswati Puja celebration on 14th February 2024 stood as a beautiful example of how Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti continues to nurture Odia culture, traditions, and community bonding. It served not only as a devotional gathering but also as a moment of learning, creativity, and shared joy—truly reflecting the grace and blessings of Maa Saraswati.

Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti had the rare honour of an interaction with the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.

During this special meeting, President of DONKS, Smt. Lili Nag, and Joint Secretary, Smt. Pooja Suna, received the privilege of representing the organisation. Their participation marked a proud moment for the entire DONKS community, reflecting the dedication and cultural commitment of Odia women in Delhi.

The interaction provided a valuable opportunity to share the vision, activities, and community welfare initiatives undertaken by DONKS, strengthening the organisation’s resolve to continue working with responsibility, dignity, and service.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Drive

On 17th September 2023, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti (DONKS) proudly conducted a Swachh Bharat Abhiyan drive, reaffirming its commitment to community cleanliness, public responsibility, and environmental awareness. The initiative was organised in alignment with the national Swachh Bharat Mission and acted as a reminder that every citizen has a role in maintaining a clean and hygienic public environment. For DONKS, a women-led organisation rooted in Odia cultural values, the drive symbolised not just cleanliness but also discipline, dignity, and collective social duty.

The event was held in a public area near India Gate, chosen because of its high footfall and the frequent littering that occurs despite municipal efforts. Members of DONKS, along with their families, children, and volunteers, gathered early in the morning, dressed in comfortable attire and armed with brooms, gloves, garbage bags, and hand-held placards displaying messages such as “Swachhta Se Samriddhi,” “Clean Delhi, Green Delhi,” and “Let’s Be the Change.”

The Chairperson began the day with a short address on the importance of cleanliness in both home and society, emphasising that Swachh Bharat is not merely a government program but a behavioural movement. She reminded everyone that traditional Odia households have long upheld the values of hygiene and purity, and initiatives like this help extend those cultural practices into public spaces.

Once the instructions for safety and workflow were shared, the team divided into groups and started the cleanliness drive. Volunteers diligently picked up plastic wrappers, bottles, paper waste, and other disposables scattered around pathways, lawns, and shaded seating areas. Children participated enthusiastically, learning hands-on lessons in community responsibility. Their excitement added a youthful charm to the entire activity, showing how early awareness can transform future habits.

Passers-by and morning walkers paused to observe the DONKS members at work, and many appreciated the effort openly. Some even joined briefly, demonstrating the ripple effect a small group can create when leading by example. DONKS members also engaged with the public, encouraging them not to litter and to use dustbins properly, politely reminding them that civic pride begins with individual actions.

A brief awareness interaction followed where members spoke about waste segregation, reducing single-use plastic, and the importance of keeping shared spaces clean. They distributed small pamphlets highlighting simple steps households can adopt to contribute to Swachh Bharat on a daily basis.

Throughout the drive, the organising committee ensured that collected waste was properly segregated and handed over to municipal sanitation workers, maintaining compliance with Delhi’s waste management guidelines. The emphasis was not just on cleaning for one day but on reinforcing a mindset of cleanliness and responsibility.

The drive concluded with a short reflection circle, where participants shared their experiences and suggestions for future clean-up initiatives. Members expressed pride in the collective effort and agreed that such activities strengthen the community bond while contributing meaningfully to society. The Chairperson thanked all participants, especially the children, for showing dedication and enthusiasm.

The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by DONKS on 17th September 2023 stood as a strong example of how community-driven actions can inspire broader change. It reflected the organisation’s commitment not only to cultural preservation but also to public welfare, environmental stewardship, and nation-building.

🌱 Plantation Drive by Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti (30th August 2023)

On 30th August 2023, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti organised a meaningful and environment-focused Plantation Drive aimed at promoting ecological awareness and contributing to a greener, cleaner Delhi. The event brought together DONKS members, families, community volunteers, and children, all united by a common purpose—to nurture nature and create a positive environmental impact.

The drive was held at a selected community space where plantation activity was needed. Members gathered early in the morning, equipped with saplings, gardening tools, water cans, and gloves. Native species such as neem, jamun, peepal, amla, hibiscus, and seasonal flowering plants were chosen because of their strong adaptability and long-term environmental benefits. The event began with a brief address by the Chairperson, who highlighted the importance of tree plantation in combating pollution, improving biodiversity, and ensuring a healthier future for the coming generations.

Volunteers were divided into small groups, each responsible for planting and watering a set number of saplings. Children actively participated, adding enthusiasm and joy to the occasion. They were guided on how to plant saplings properly, how deep to place them, how to support them with soil, and how to water them adequately. This hands-on learning experience helped them understand that environmental protection begins with simple, responsible actions.

During the drive, members also discussed the long-term maintenance plan for the saplings. A watering schedule was identified, and nearby residents were encouraged to help take care of the newly planted trees. Many expressed their willingness to support the initiative, turning the plantation drive into a collaborative community effort.

The event also served as a platform to raise awareness about climate change, rising pollution levels in Delhi, and the role of individuals in creating sustainable surroundings. Members emphasized the need for every household to plant at least one tree a year and minimise the use of plastic. Pamphlets promoting eco-friendly habits were distributed as part of the awareness effort.

As the drive concluded, participants gathered for a short reflection session. They shared their experiences, expressed joy at contributing to nature, and pledged to continue supporting eco-initiatives under the DONKS banner. The day ended on a hopeful and inspiring note, with the green saplings symbolizing new beginnings and the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Plantation Drive of 30th August 2023 became a memorable event for Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti—highlighting unity, responsibility, and the spirit of giving back to the environment. With every sapling planted, DONKS reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing both society and nature, ensuring that its efforts today lead to a greener and healthier tomorrow.

DONKS General Meeting 2021 At Pandara Park, Pandara Road, New Delhi

On 9th December 2021, Delhi Odia Nari Kalyan Samiti convened a General Meeting with a focused agenda: to discuss concrete ways to support the poor and vulnerable sections of society. The meeting was held in a warm yet disciplined atmosphere, with executive members, active volunteers, and new participants all present. The Chairperson opened the session by welcoming everyone and briefly recalling the purpose of DONKS—not just to preserve Odia culture in Delhi, but also to extend a helping hand to those in need, irrespective of caste, religion, or region.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed, after which the main agenda for the day was taken up. Members reflected on the hardships faced by daily-wage workers, domestic helpers, migrant labourers, and slum-dwelling families in and around Delhi, especially in the lingering shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Several members shared first-hand experiences from their own localities, where families were struggling with job loss, school drop-outs, and inadequate access to healthcare and nutrition.

A structured discussion followed regarding the types of support DONKS could provide. Three key areas were identified: food security, education support, and winter relief. For food security, it was proposed that DONKS organise monthly ration kits for selected families, including rice, dal, oil, salt, and basic spices. For education, members suggested school fee support, notebooks, and stationery for children from low-income families, especially those from Odia migrant communities. Winter relief was also prioritised, with a clear plan to distribute blankets, woollen clothes, and socks to pavement dwellers and labourers before the peak of winter.

The financial aspects were discussed in detail. The Treasurer presented the current status of the DONKS fund and explained how much could be allocated immediately without affecting routine activities. It was decided that a special “Sahayata Nidhi” (Help Fund) would be created specifically for welfare activities. Members agreed to contribute voluntarily according to their capacity, and it was resolved that a transparent record of all donations and expenditures would be maintained and shared in subsequent meetings.

Responsibilities were then distributed among the members. One committee was formed for identifying genuine beneficiary families through local surveys and personal visits. Another committee was tasked with procurement—finding reliable vendors for ration items and blankets at reasonable rates. A third committee was formed to handle logistics, packing, and distribution, ensuring that the process was dignified, organised, and strictly non-political. It was also decided that children of the DONKS members would be involved in packing the kits to inculcate values of empathy and social responsibility from a young age.

Before closing, the meeting also touched upon the importance of long-term engagement rather than one-time charity. Several members emphasised that while immediate relief is essential, DONKS should gradually explore sustainable initiatives such as skill-development workshops for women, health-awareness camps, and educational mentorship for children. The Chairperson appreciated these suggestions and noted them as future agendas for upcoming meetings.

The General Meeting of 9th December 2021 concluded with a unanimous resolution: DONKS would not remain a silent observer but would actively work to reduce suffering in its own small but sincere way. A vote of thanks was offered to all members for their time, ideas, and commitment. With renewed motivation and a clear action plan, the members dispersed—each carrying a sense of purpose and responsibility towards the poor and underprivileged of the society.