MALKANGIRI: Malkangiri town wears a festive look in the wake of the three-day cultural extravaganza, Malyabanta Mahotsav -2008. The festival showcases amalgamation of various cultures through various dance forms from across the State and country.
On the second day of the fest today, Deputy Speaker Prahallad Dora said: ‘‘The rich cultural heritage of the district has been brought to the limelight though this festival.’’ Cultural troupes from the State and outside participated in various cultural programmes and earned appreciation from the audience. Yesterday, the festival was inaugurated by Malkangiri MLA Nimai Chandra Sarkar and District Collector and chairman of District Council of Culture, Nitin Bhanudas Jawale by performing the ‘Manch Puja’ at the DNK Ground here. A souvenir ‘Saptadhara’, showcasing the cultural heritage of the district, was released. Speaking on the occasion, Jawale sought cooperation of people to make the festival a success. Highlighting the purpose of the festival, he said that many tribals across the district, through Malyabanta Mahotsav, have got a platform to exhibit their inherent talents.
Earlier in the day, holy water collected from the various rivers was handed over to the Collector at the Jagannath temple from where it was brought in a colourful procession to the festival site at the DNK Ground amidst playing of drums. Later puja was performed at the Malyabanta mandap . The first day was marked by performances in Odissi, Bihu of Assam and the local Koya dance. Over 20,000 people from the district and outside are attending the festival.
About 92 stalls have been erected by the various government and non-government agencies at the festival ground. Tight security arrangements have been made at the festival ground and in the town anticipating Maoist threat.