Utkal University, which had its’ jurisdiction over the entire state at the time of its inception, at present is catering to the learning needs of around 1.5 crore people belonging to 9 districts of Odisha. But practically it draws students from every nook and corner of the state and thus becomes the confluence of the myriad cultural traditions that are prevailing across its’ length and breadth.
The talents among the students are showcased in the Annual Functions that are held by each of the 27 regular departments, 17 self financing programmes and the boys and girls hostels in the campus. These events are managed and conducted by the students themselves under the supervision of the concerned faculty members.
The University has been the incubator for many talents who have established themselves in various cultural fields both at national and international levels. The Cultural club of the University conducts various competitions among the students to spot the hidden talents among them.
Besides, the students celebrate Utkal Divas, the Foundation Day of the State. Students from western Odisha observe “Nuakhai” a major festival which signifies offering of the first agricultural produce to the ruling deity. Students of tribal belt also organize a special event to showcase their rich cultural traditions.
During 2015-16, the Cultural club of the university conducted a competition among the students to Design the Flag for the University. Taking inputs from the ideas obtained, the University has finalized the Flag for itself.
The year 2015-16 also witnessed adoption of poetry by one of the founders of University, Pandit Godabarish Mishra, as the “Theme Song” of the University under the aegis of the Cultural club. The Flag and the “Theme Song” have been placed in the website of the University.
