The vibrant district of Jharsuguda in Odisha came alive with the sounds of music and dance as the much-awaited Jharsuguda Lok Mahotsav, popularly known as Dulduli, commenced on a spectacular note on Thursday evening. The five-day cultural extravaganza saw thousands of residents and visitors from across the district and beyond flocking to the BTM Ground to witness the grand opening ceremony.
A Grand Cultural Procession Sets the Stage
The festivities began earlier in the day with a majestic cultural procession, or 'sobha yatra'. This vibrant parade started from the historic Jhadheswar Temple. The yatra saw enthusiastic participation from local dignitaries, including Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy and District Collector Kunal M. Chavan, along with other officials. The procession, brimming with folk artists and performers, wound its way through the city, culminating at the main festival venue, where Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit joined the celebrations.
Inauguration by Ministers and Recognition of Artistes
The festival and the accompanying Pallishree Mela were formally inaugurated by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, who lit the traditional lamp. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik. In his address, Minister Pujari eloquently spoke about the rich and diverse tapestry of art and culture that Jharsuguda district is renowned for. The event was also attended by SP G. Raghavendra Reddy.
A significant highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the felicitation of four distinguished Padma Shri awardees by the Jharsuguda administration. The honored guests were:
- Renowned Odissi dancer Aruna Mohanty
- Celebrated folk singer Jitendriya Haripal
- Eminent folk artist Krishna Patel
- Distinguished folk singer Mitrabhanu Gountia
A Mesmerizing Evening of Diverse Performances
The opening night transformed into a cultural feast for the senses with a series of captivating performances by artists from across India. The audience was treated to a diverse lineup that showcased the country's artistic unity in diversity. The performances included:
- A soulful 'Maa Samaleswari Vandana' by Srujani Parivar.
- A graceful Odissi dance presentation by Padma Shri Aruna Mohanty.
- The energetic Mayur dance from Mathura.
- The lively Lavani dance form from Maharashtra.
- The powerful and traditional Chhau dance from Mayurbhanj.
- The local folk dance Panchrashi from Lakhanpur.
- The rhythmic Bajania performance from Sambalpur.
- A poignant theatrical presentation titled 'Aamar Jharsuguda' by Mirror Theatre from Belpahar.
Each act received thunderous applause, leaving the audience enthralled and setting a high standard for the remaining days of the festival.
The successful inauguration of the Jharsuguda Lok Mahotsav has set the tone for a memorable celebration of Odisha's heritage. The event not only provides a platform for local and national artists but also strengthens the cultural fabric of the region, promising four more days of artistic brilliance and community engagement.
