The Malyabanta Mahotsav -2023 commenced with fervour and traditional grandeur at Jaduguda Shaiva Peetha in Padmagiri panchayat of Malkangiri district on Tuesday.
District Culture Council Chairman and District Magistrate Vishal Singh marked the auspicious beginning, leading the ceremonial ‘Kalash’ procession.
In the morning, ADM Vedabar Pradhan conducted the initial puja, setting the spiritual tone for the festival. Sub-Collector Akshay Kumar Khemundu welcomed the guests.
Under the guidance of BDO Prabhati Jhodia, the Block Group orchestrated the festival, adhering to traditional tribal customs. The festivities would cascade to seven blocks, symbolising unity and cultural richness.
The Kalash procession witnessed large public participation, featuring mesmerising 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.
Malkangiri SP Nitesh Wadhwani, DFO Pratap Kattapalla, ZP Chairperson Samari Tangul, Chittarakonda MLA Purna Chandra Baka, SDC Chairman Adma Raba, and Malkangiri block Chairperson Gauri Padhiami were among others present.