Indus Valley Times

By Addanki Iswar R.

Malkangiri,28 November 2023 – The Malyabanta Mahotsav for the year 2023 commenced with fervor and traditional grandeur at Jaduguda Shaiva Peetha in Padmagiri Panchayat, Malkangiri . District Culture Council Chairman and District Magistrate Vishal Singh marked the auspicious beginning, leading the ceremonial ‘Kalash’ procession. Notable attendees included SP Malkangiri Nitesh Wadhwani, DFO Pratap Kattapalla, ZP Chairperson Samari Tangul, Chittarakonda MLA Purna Chandra Baka, SDC Chairman Adma Raba , and Malkangiri Block Chairperson Gauri Padhiami.

In the morning, ADM Vedabar Pradhan conducted the initial puja, setting the spiritual tone for the festival. Dr. Akshay Kumar Khemundu, Sub Collector, and Chairman of the Malyabanta Mahotsav Cultural Committee ,extended a warm welcome to the guests, presenting Uttari as a gesture of hospitality.

Under the guidance of Block Development Officer Prabhati Jhodia, the Block Group orchestrated the festival, adhering to traditional tribal customs. The festivities will cascade to seven blocks, symbolizing unity and cultural richness.

The Kalash procession witnessed widespread participation, featuring mesmerizing folk dance performances by Koya, Gadaba, and Dhemsa troupes from the district.

In the afternoon the procession from Bhairavi Temple to Jagannath Temple,Malkangiri captivated the audience, involving Self-Help Group mothers, college students, club members, and the general public.

A distinguished lineup of officials attended the event, including ADM Trinath Majhi, DIPRO Pramila Majhi, SDPO Sachin Patel, Ranger Jagannath Bishoi, IIC Reegan Kindo, and various public representatives, Panchayat staff and the general public collaborated seamlessly to ensure the success of the festival.

The Malyavanta Festival promises to be a cultural extravaganza, celebrating the essence of tribal traditions and fostering community spirit throughout the region.