With summer approaching, a quirky salon promotion has quickly become the talk of the town. The advertisement on social media promised a chilled beer to anyone booking a haircut package worth Rs 400 in a prominent locality in Bhubaneswar. Curious customers are flocking in, some more excited about the frosty drink than the trim itself. The clever marketing strategy has become viral on social media platforms.Odia spiritWomen IPS and IAS officers took part in Utkal Divas celebration in style. Leading from the front was IPS officer Sagarika Nath, who draped herself in a gorgeous handloom saree, posted a stunning photograph on social media, and basically made the internet pause respectfully for a moment. Not to be outdone, senior IAS officer Roopa Mishra, while on central deputation in New Delhi, pulled off a true Odia power move — arranging a full-on Pakhala feast for her co-workers at a meeting venue. While others bring files to meetings, she brought culture and flavour. Sharing photos of mouthwatering dishes on social media, she sent warm Utkal Divas wishes to the people of Odisha back home.Rail deal Railways’ decision to add the Palasa-Ichhapuram section of East Coast Railway’s Khurda Road railway division to the proposed Visakhapatnam division of South Coast Railway has been criticised by several organisations. They have urged the Centre to transfer the Odisha portion under South Eastern Railway and other zones to East Coast Railway. Many also took to social media to demand that stations like Rourkela, Jharsuguda, Balasore, Keonjhar and Baripada be transferred to Odisha from other zones.Heritage drape Connoisseurs of Odisha handlooms were delighted as celebrated actor Madhuri Dixit donned a Sambalpuri saree and spotlighted the timeless appeal and cultural richness of the state’s weaving traditions. Madhuri, brand ambassador of Odisha handloom, described the as sarees “intricate, soulful, and deeply rooted in heritage”. Taking to social media, Madhuri said Odisha’s textiles are not merely fabrics but narratives crafted with love, patience, and generations of expertise. With Madhuri’s association, supporters believe Odisha handloom is set to gain a wider spotlight, adding both glamour and value to the state’s rich weaving legacy.(Contributed by Team TOI)
