The State-level tribal festival Parab-2012 kicked off here by School and Mass Education Minister Rabinarayan Nanda on Friday evening.
The tribals, colourfully dressed, welcomed the Minister with dance and music. The festival kicked off with chanting of names of the Goddesses of various blocks by a tribal.
Speaking at the function, Minister said the culture of Koraput should be preserved for the future generations. The tribal region has vast human talent which should be brought to limelight.
Stating that Parab has completed 12 years, Nabarangpur MP Pradip Majhi urged the researchers and art lovers to come forward for generation-wise documentation which would go a long away in enhancing and strengthening culture.
District Collector Sachin Jadhab said Parab would soon find its way into the festivals of national prominence. Zilla Parishad president Malati Majhi, Koraput and Laxmipur MLAs Raghuram Padal and Jhina Hikaka, DRDA Project Director Chudamani Seth spoke. The inaugural function was followed by performances by artistes from across the State and outside.