Odia families from around the world, including the US, Canada, India and Bahamas came together for OSA’s annual convention on board a cruise ship and at Bahamas Islands to celebrate the Odia culture and heritage.
The convention was attended by three generations of Odias living in Americas as a show of solidarity and cultural integration. Inaugural ceremony started with national anthem of US, India and Odisha, and with lamp lighting and blessings by senior members Dr Jogeswara Rath, Runubala Rath, Nityananda Mishra, Niharbala Mishra, Dr Uma and Shanti Mishra, Dr Ramprasad and Sudha Patnaik, Mrutyunjaya Pani, Janaki Pani, Dr Sita Kantha Dash, Kalpana Dash and Dr Joy Gopal Mohanty, Dr Sita Kantha Dash.
OSA president Sushant Satpathy presided. Vice president Sulochana Patnaik welcomed everyone.
Secretary Saradakanta Panda provided overview of activities and treasurer Siddharth Behera gave the vote of thanks.
OSA recognized few of its pioneering members with Annual OSA Awards.A cultural programme was held. The 49th OSA Convention in 2018 will be in Detroit.