Art and culture of Nuapada District, Odisha is an excellent portrayal of the glorious culture and traditions which have been followed in this region since several centuries. Numerous festivals are observed by the regional inhabitants of Nuapada District, which includes religious and social events. Some of the significant festivals are the `Chhat Puja`, `Ganesh Festival` and so on. Nuapada District has produced numerable literary geniuses, which has served as a prominent centre for arts and culture since ages.
The area of Khariar in Nuapada was administered by the Chouhan rulers, who used to worship Goddess Samaleshwari, and was also referred to as a `Shakti Peetha`. Literature and arts once flourished at Khariar, as per some historical accounts. During ancient ages, a literary personality named `Bhakta Kabi Chaitanya Dash` earned fame through his literary creations. He was followed by Raja Brajraj Singh, who was yet another literary genius belonging to Nuapada District. The idea of `Dadhibaman` cult was propagated by Dadhibaman Temple which was erected during 9th to 10th century AD in the area of Khariar. Owing to its architectural beauty, the temple has been proclaimed as a State Protected Monument. Thus, this ancient temple possesses a historical significance. Yet another important archaeological marvel is the `bawli` or stepwell which is present in the campus premises of the Khariar College.
Holi, Diwali and `Chhat Puja` are some of the festivals which are celebrated with gusto in this Indian district. Presently, these festivals are observed a day in advance to that during which they are celebrated in the other portions of Odisha. A musical ceremony named `Nangara` is also observed here, about 10 days prior to Holi, as part of the culture of Chhatisgarh which is located close to Nuapada. The Ganesh Festival is another popular festival of Nuapada District, which continues for over a week. This festival is supervised by Nagpur Presidency, Raipur District. Sikhs, Muslims and Christians are amongst the other communities who reside in this district of Odisha. National College and National High School are a few of the educational institutions which exist in Nuapada District.
A cultural hub known as `Raj Khariar` has been constantly making attempts to encourage the Odiya culture, by promoting the Kosli language ever since the period of the rule of feudal lords in this region. `Paharia` and `Bhunjia` are the Austric languages which are utilized as mediums of communication by some of the local people of Nuapada District. The various dialects of Kosli language and also the Odiya language are spoken by the residents of Nuapada.