Indus Valley Times

By Sanjay Kumar Panigrahi

Jharsuguda/ Kalahandi (Odisha), Dec. 17: The 27th edition of Kalahandi Utsav – Ghumura brought four days of joy, pride, and community togetherness, showcasing the region’s cultural wealth alongside strides in social progress. Vedanta Lanjigarh, a leader in alumina production and part of Vedanta Aluminium, played a pivotal role in this grand celebration, highlighting its contributions to cultural preservation and community empowerment. 

The festival spotlighted two key initiatives by Vedanta—Project Adikala and Project Sakhi—that have touched countless lives in rural Odisha. Project Adikala revives ancient Saura paintings and Dhokra metalwork, supporting over 200 artisan families while preserving age-old traditions. Visitors were captivated by the intricate craftsmanship on display. Complementing this, Project Sakhi showcased organic and handmade products created by over 4,000 rural women, empowering them through economic independence. 

Another crowd-puller at Vedanta’s exhibit was an engaging exploration of the aluminum-making process. Demonstrations provided insights into how bauxite ore is transformed into high-quality aluminum, showcasing the company’s state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable operations. Through this, Vedanta emphasized its commitment to aligning industrial growth with environmental sustainability. 

The inauguration of Vedanta’s pavilion was graced by notable dignitaries, including Malvika Devi, Member of Parliament for Kalahandi, and District Collector Sachin Pawar. Praising the event, Malvika Devi remarked, “Ghumura reflects Kalahandi’s vibrant cultural heritage. Vedanta’s support for local artisans and women showcases how industry can empower communities and preserve tradition.” She further added, “Their initiatives beautifully illustrate how industrial progress can coexist with cultural enrichment, paving the way for socio-economic transformation.” 

Echoing these sentiments, District Collector Sachin Pawar noted, “Kalahandi Utsav is a testament to the spirit of this region. Vedanta’s work in education, healthcare, and skills development demonstrates the power of industries to drive holistic community growth while honoring cultural legacies.” 

Vedanta Alumina Business CEO, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, shared his pride in participating in the festival, stating, “Kalahandi Utsav is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of the people and their heritage. At Vedanta, we are committed to fostering both industrial and social progress, preserving the soul of Kalahandi while empowering its communities.” 

This annual festival remains a vibrant confluence of art, tradition, and transformation. It serves as a platform for tribal communities to showcase their unique culture while celebrating the region’s resilience and progress, proving once again that tradition and development can go hand in hand. 

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