Parab, the State-level tribal festival, was inaugurated by Koraput MP Jayram Pangi at Ganesh shrine in Nandapur here on Sunday. As per the rituals, a puja was performed at Nisanimunda temple (village deity) in Koraput amid playing of cymbals and beating of drums by tribals and the main torch was lit by the MP.
Addressing the gathering, the MP said the unique festival was aimed at bringing to the fore tribal talents in the fields of art, culture and sports. “Parab has become an important event in the cultural calendar of the State. Koraput has enormous tourism potential and its tourism products should be highlighted properly during the festival,” he added.
A poster on the festival was released on the occasion and many tribal youths were felicitated. District Collector Sachin Jadhab said about 50,000 artistes and sports persons are expected to participate in the panchayat, block and urban and district-level competitions during the festival.
Panchayat, block and urban level celebrations would begin on Tuesday and the final celebration on November 18.