NABARANGPUR:The block-level celebration of Nabarangpur’s cultural extravaganza, Mondei-2017, began at Tentulikhunti on Sunday. Going by the traditions, the inauguration puja was performed at Sri Jagannath Temple at Khatiguda village near Indravati Dam under.
District Collector and Chairman of District Council of Culture, Rashmita Panda, along with Minister of ST and SC Development Ramesh Majhi and MLA Manohar Randhari lighted the ceremonial Mondei Mashal at the temple.
Members of tribal dance troupes took part in a procession, donning colourful attires. They carried the Mondei Mashal to the event venue. Speaking on the occasion, Majhi said the Mondei cultural festival has given an opportunity to the local artistes to showcase their hidden talents.
“The festival has given a special recognition to the district both at the state and the national levels. It has become a platform for cultural exchanges between the local troupes and artistes who have been coming from various parts of the country since the past 16 years,” he added. This year, the Mondei poster has been based on education theme. The main function will be held in the district headquarters town of Nabarangpur between December 8 and 10.