‘Shrestha Odiani’ contest, organised by the Sambhabana, was kick-started at the Ekamra Haat here from April 1 to protect the Odisha culture and uphold the Odia identity. The contest was started with Purana recitation and Rangoli competition.
Former Minister Braja Kishore Tripathy inaugurated the event. Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was present as the chief guest and said this programme would help in spreading the art and culture of Odisha.
Sambhabana president Sarat Chandra Bhadra chaired the programme. Competitions on 12 events like Jhoti, Pitha, Sankhapuja, Dhagadhamali, Paramparika Sangeet, Panabhanga, Puran Abruti, Muruja, cooking, Hulahuli, Odia tiana and Odiani Beshabhusha would also be organised in the 13-day programme.
This apart another programme, ‘Shishu-Kishore Odia Swabhiman Pratijogita’ was also started on the occasion. Competitions for the children would be held on drawing, debate, general knowledge, handwriting, Odishi, laghunrutya, Sugam Sangeet, recitation and comic dress wearing.