The Kendujhar Vikash Manch, formed by the denizens of Kendujhar living in the capital city, celebrated the Kendujhar Utsav-2013 on April 28 and 29 here.
A discussion was held to highlight the problems afflicting the district and its people besides promotion of the little known cultural heritage and art forms of the district.
The local talents, who brought glory to the district, were felicitated. Dharani Samman was conferred on Rajya Sabha member AV Swamy for his contribution towards the Juango of Champai village and other tribals of the district. A cash award of Rs 20,000 was given with the Samman.
A souvenir, entitled Baitarani and a book, entitled History of Kendujhar written by Niranjan Barik were inaugurated. A huge gathering of people from different parts of the district attended the function and took an oath to work together for the all-round development of the district.
On the first day, Panchayati Raj Minister Kalpataru Das, Higher Education Minister Badri Narayan Patra, Padmashree Tulsi Munda, Keonjhar MlA Subarna Naik and senior journalist Arun Panda attended the function, while Chief Information Commissioner Tarun Kanti Mishra, former Minister Saharai Oram, former MP Upendra Naik, Chandrasena Naik and dignitaries of the district graced the occasion on the second day.
The festival was a success due to the initiatives of Manch president Sirish Mohanty and secretary Pradeep Kumar Das.