Addressing the closing ceremony of the month-long State-level tribal festival ‘Parab’ here on Sunday, ST and SC Development Minister Ramesh Chandra Majhi said the festival of indigenous people is a true reflection of its very soul.
“It is in fact the mirror of the century-old tribal art, culture, music and dance for which, Koraput has its own identity. The tribal art has contributed greatly towards enrichment of our glorious cultural heritage. Parab is a step in this direction and the festival has reached its 22nd year of celebration,” he said.
Collector Anupam Saha said the Parab is a perfect platform to share the culture, to spread a message of integrity and brotherhood among all. He also said the Parab is not only for the locals but also for the bordering area of Andhra Pradesh and Chatisgarh.
On the closing day, Jitendra Haripal rendered popular folk song ‘Ranga Bati Re Ranga Bati’ which stole the hearts of the audience. School students of KGBP in Mayurbhanj displayed martial art in the evening. later, Haripal was felicitated with ‘Sabari Samman’ by the Minister.
Meanwhile, the Pallishree Mela organised on the sidelines of the festival registered Rs 3.56 crore business during the three days. Over 300 stalls were set up by Koraput District Supply and Marketing Society .
Among others, Koraput MP Jhina Hikaka, Pottangi MlA Prafulla Pangi, Collector An-upam Saha and Commandant of Cobra Battalion Brijesh Kumar attended the function.