weOriyas.org – The Original Group
Uniting Oriyas (Odias) Beyond Borders – Celebrating Culture, Strengthening Community.
Rooted in culture, united in spirit – our Odia community in Greater Sacramento and surrounding areas is more than just a gathering; it’s a family. Whether it’s festive celebrations, meaningful connections, or joyful moments shared, we come together to embrace our traditions while creating new memories. Here, every voice matters, every bond strengthens, and every event brings us closer. Join us as we celebrate the essence of being Odia, far from home but always connected at heart!”
Connect with fellow Oriyas (Odias), celebrate culture, share events, and stay connected
Our Events – 2025
” Events in this group are coordinated by dedicated volunteers, with the total cost evenly shared among participants down to the last cent. No membership fees, no donations, and no obligations“
Saraswati Puja – 02/02/2025
Saraswati Puja, dedicated to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, arts, and learning, is a sacred festival celebrated with great devotion. Students, artists, and scholars seek her blessings for enlightenment and creativity. Books, musical instruments, and tools of learning are placed before the goddess as a mark of reverence. The festival fosters a love for education, culture, and the pursuit of knowledge. Join us in celebrating Saraswati Puja with devotion, joy, and the spirit of learning! Jai Maa Saraswati!
Holi Celebration – 03/15/2025
Holi, the festival of colors, is a vibrant celebration of love, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. Marked by joyful gatherings, and the playful throwing of colors, Holi brings people together in a spirit of harmony and renewal. Bonfires on Holika Dahan symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Embrace the energy, soak in the colors, and spread joy this Holi as we celebrate love, friendship, and new beginnings! Let’s color the world with happiness!
Raja Picnic – 06/14/2025
Raja Parba, a unique festival of Odisha, is a vibrant three-day celebration honoring womanhood and fertility, symbolizing the rejuvenation of Mother Earth. It marks the arrival of the monsoon and the beginning of the agricultural cycle. During this joyous time, women take a break from household work, dress in new clothes, apply alta (red dye) on their feet, and enjoy swings (doli), traditional games, and folk songs. Special delicacies like Pitha and Tarakari add to the festive spirit. Raja is a time of fun, freedom, and festivity, celebrating the strength and grace of women.
Camping – 07/05/2025
Camping is a gateway to adventure, where nature becomes your home, and the stars your ceiling. It’s a chance to escape the noise, reconnect with the wild, and find peace in simplicity. Every fire-lit night and sunrise-filled morning brings new stories and memories to cherish. Pack your gear, embrace the unknown, and let the great outdoors inspire you!
Ganesh Puja – 08/30/2025
Ganesh Puja, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is a grand celebration honoring Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. This festival brings our families together in a spirit of unity and devotion. With vibrant decorations, heartfelt prayers, sacred rituals, aarti, and delicious festive treats, we welcome Bappa with love and reverence. Join us in seeking his divine blessings and celebrating this sacred occasion with joy, faith, and togetherness. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
Diwali Celebration – 10/25/2025
Diwali, the most celebrated Indian festival, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes and streets glow with diyas (lamps), vibrant rangoli, and dazzling fireworks, creating a magical atmosphere of joy and unity. Families come together to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, seeking her blessings for happiness and success. The festival is marked by delicious sweets, festive gatherings, and the exchange of love and gratitude. Diwali is not just a celebration—it’s a time to embrace positivity, renewal, and new beginnings.
New Year’s Eve Celebration – 12/31/2025
Join us for a fun-filled evening as we ring in 2025 with friends, family, and festive cheer! Enjoy a night of delicious food, lively music, exciting games, and a countdown to midnight filled with joy and laughter. Let’s make this a memorable start to the new year with dancing, entertainment, and great conversations.
Kumar Purnima – Date(TBD)
Join Us for a Joyous Kumar Purnima Celebration! As the full moon shines bright, let’s come together to celebrate Kumar Purnima, a festival of beauty, devotion, and prosperity! Kumar Purnima is not only a celebration of youth and beauty but also a time of joy, social bonding, and deep-rooted traditions that reflect Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
College Admission Seminar – Date(TBD)
Speaker/Counselor – TBD. Navigating the college admission process can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Join us for an informative and interactive seminar designed to guide students and parents through the college admission preparation and application journey.
Frequently Asked
Questions
What is the purpose of this group?
This group serves as a platform for Oriya (Odia) families in Sacramento and the surrounding areas of Northern California to connect, engage, and foster a sense of community. It is a space to share experiences, celebrate festivals, uphold traditions, and stay informed about local events.
How is this group different than any other group?
Unlike other groups, it is not tied to any non-profit organization but is driven by its volunteers, ensuring that everyone has an equal voice. The group focuses on fostering local connections, celebrating our culture, and organizing special events, making it easier to network, support one another, and build meaningful relationships.
What is the financial structure of this group?
The cost of any events is shared equally among all participant families. We do not ask for donations or seek assistance from corporations.
Who is responsible for organizing the events in this group?
The events in this group are organized by several active volunteers who have a passion for bringing people together and a proven track record of successfully organizing various events.
Does this group have a President, or Vice President?
No, it is a free-flowing, volunteers-driven group with no formal leadership positions.
Why doesn’t this group have a non-profit status?
A non-profit entity comes with the burden of rules, regulations, and the selection and election of key members, which can often lead to conflicts within the group. We chose a simpler approach, allowing families to freely connect and mingle without the complexities of a non-profit structure.