Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Thursday underlined that culture is not merely an aesthetic aspect of society but the very bedrock on which civilisations thrive, innovate and advance. He was speaking at the 5th Cultural Economic Conclave 2025 held at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Dr. Kambhampati emphasised that India has traditionally viewed culture and economy as interconnected, not isolated domains. “From festivals and rituals to temples, crafts, architecture and performing arts, our cultural expressions have long shaped moral conduct, influenced economic choices and supported livelihoods,” he said.
He noted that India’s cultural frameworks have historically nurtured strong economic ecosystems. “Festivals evolved into local marketplaces, temples emerged as centres of learning and commerce, textiles and handlooms drove regional prosperity, and traditional knowledge systems promoted sustainable practices,” he added.
Speaking about Odisha’s distinct cultural landscape, the Governor said the state reflects a continuing civilisation where culture permeates everyday life. “Odisha celebrates thirteen festivals across twelve months. These occasions strengthen communities, provide sustained work to artisans and uphold collective values,” he remarked.
Dr. Kambhampati cited Jagannath culture, Odissi dance, Sambalpuri and other indigenous handlooms, Raghurajpur’s art traditions and the rich tribal heritage as examples of cultural legacies that support thousands of families. Odisha’s maritime traditions, showcased through Bali Yatra, he said, demonstrate how entrepreneurship has been ingrained in the region’s history.
Commending national initiatives to rejuvenate heritage under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that heritage cities, museums, pilgrimage routes and craft clusters are creating employment and paving the way for new cultural entrepreneurship models.
Laying out the roadmap for the future, the Governor stressed three priorities — safeguarding cultural heritage, strengthening creative industries to ensure dignified livelihoods and promoting ethical economic practices rooted in Indian values.
“As we progress, let us build a nation where culture and the economy reinforce each other,” he concluded, reiterating Odisha’s commitment to actively contribute to this national aspiration.
