Odisha's Dulduli Mahotsav begins with message of sustainable development
JHARSUGUDA: The industrial hub of Jharsuguda on Thursday marked the beginning of its district foundation day celebrations with the grand inauguration of Dulduli Mahotsav 2026 at the BTM field, blending cultural splendour with a strong message of sustainable development.
Inaugurating the festival as chief guest, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said in the 32 years of its formation, Jharsuguda has witnessed remarkable growth but still holds immense potential for further development. He assured that there would be no dearth of funds for well-prepared proposals aimed at the district’s all-round progress.
Pujari described pollution as the biggest hurdle to sustainable development and announced a zero-tolerance policy against industrial pollution. He declared a complete ban on ash dumping along roadsides and said around 350 abandoned mines across Odisha have been brought under the Revenue department for scientific ash disposal. While acknowledging the role of industries in economic growth, he stressed that public health and human lives must remain the top priority.
The minister directed the district collector and SP to enforce strict measures to ensure a pollution-free Jharsuguda and highlighted the state’s first comprehensive ash management guidelines.
A series of captivating cultural performances were staged on the first day of the festival. Padma Shri awardees Aruna Mohanty, Jitendra Haripal and Krishna Patel were felicitated on the occasion and later, enthralled the audience with their rendition of the iconic Sambalpuri song ‘Rangabati’. Artistes from Mathura led by Murarilal Tiwari presented a vibrant Mayur dance, while Maharashtra’s Adbhut Kalamanch staged energetic Lavani and Keli dances. Mayurbhanj’s Laxmanath Das and his team impressed with a powerful Chhau dance.
Among others, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Nayak, MP Pradeep Purohit, MLA Tankadhar Tripathy, collector Kunal Motiram Chavan and SP GR Raghavendra were present. The Dulduli Mahotsav along with Pallishree and Swadeshi Melas will continue till January 5.