BHAWANIPATNA: The final function of the mega annual cultural event of Kalahandi - Kalahandi Utsav Ghumura- 2011 - began yesterday on a colourful note. Organised by Zilla Sanskruti Parishad, it is scheduled to be held till January 17 at the Lalbahadur stadium in Bhawanipatna. The Utsav is being simultaneously organised at Bhawanipatna and Dharamgarh.
The Utsav is a platform to encourage, motivate and showcase the art, culture, music, drama, literature and handicrafts of the district. Folk dances different districts of the State and other states like West Bengal and Chhattisgarh will be staged as a part of the event.
Apart from this, a Pallishree Mela, KBK Craft Mela, Krushi and Krushak Mela and handloom stalls are being organised.
At Bhawanipatna, it has been planned to organise a ‘Kabi Sammelani’ and seminar on the topic ‘Challenges before Kalahandi in agriculture and allied sectors’ and KBK-level volley ball tournament during the festival. Earlier, archery and boating competitions were organised for tribals at Mahulpatna.
At Dharamgarh, the main attraction of the festival is the stage that has been prepared depicting the heritage of Saiba pitha Belkhandi. Besides, a photograph exhibition of personalities, events, tourism places and heritage sights are being organised.
The festival at both the places were inaugurated by Power Minister Atanu Sabyasachi and Labour and Employment Minister Puspendra Singhdeo. Zilla Parisad president Sarat Naik attended.