The much-awaited Khadial Mahotsav-2019 kicked off at the Raja AT High School ground of Khariar town on Thursday. The inaugural evening witnessed Odishi dance and Chhattisgarhi dance, sponsored by the Departments of Culture of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, as well as various tribal dances of Kalahandi and Balangir districts.
Amongst the array of festivals in Khariar town, the Khadial Mahotsav has emerged as a highly-appreciated event in the region which attracts lakhs of people from different parts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
“The festival was conceived in 2004 in the presence of local people with a view to popularising the historical and cultural importance of Khariar. We failed to hold the first Mahotsav in January 2005 due to cyclonic rain, but the Khadial Mahotsavs 2006 was a mega success,” said founder-president of Khadial Mahotsav Committee Nimai Tandi.
“Khadial Mahotsavs provides an opportunity not only to the people of the locality, it is also a platform for artists of all over the country. It has become a stage for promotion of culture and heritage of Odisha as well as India,” added present Mahotsav Committee president Jitendra Pattnaik.
The festival on Thursday started with a Masal Yatra brought from the Yogi Math of Rishipith, a historical site at a distance of ten km from Khariar town. Prayers were offered in two of the oldest temples of historical importance, Dadhibaman and Samalewari temples. The procession of thousands of people passed through the town to the Mahotsav venue.
Stalls have been put up and fairs on agriculture, health and other sectors have been organised. Minabazaar and dance programmes are the main attraction, especially for children and youths.
The guests on the inaugural day were Minister of Tribal Welfare Ramesh Chandra Majhi, Planning and coordination Department Special Secretary Sujit Kumar Seth, Rajendra Dholkia and Lambodar Nial, Expert Member, WODC. The chief speaker was Rajib Pani. The meeting was presided over by Mohemmed Yasin, vice-president of Mahotsav Committee. Committee secretary Sunil Sahu presented the annual report.