Jeypore: The much-awaited national-level Lok Mahotsav Parab–2025 was inaugurated with grandeur and cultural fervour in Koraput district on Tuesday. The celebrations began with traditional rituals at the Sahasra Shivalinga Temple in Kutunipadar under Lakshmipur block, where the Parab mashal (torch) was lit following puja and carried in a grand procession to the festival ground.
The formal inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of several dignitaries under the chairmanship of Koraput District Collector and President of the District Cultural Council, Manoj Satyaban Mahajan.
The event was graced by Koraput MLA Raghuram Macha, Pottangi MLA Ramchandra Kadam, Lakshmipur MLA Pabitra Saunta, Kotpad MLA Rupu Bhatra, and District Council Chairperson Sasmita Meleka, who attended as chief guests.
The ceremony began with the lighting of lamps, unveiling of the Parab-2025 poster and stickers, and the administration of the Parab oath by the District Collector. The dignitaries spoke about the festival’s legacy and its role in promoting Odisha’s tribal heritage and folk traditions.
Lakshmipur MLA Pabitra Saunta and Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sasmita Meleka recalled that Parab, launched in 1996, was envisioned to provide a platform for hidden rural and tribal talents — a vision that has today evolved into a nationally recognised celebration of Odisha’s cultural diversity.
The event was attended by Lakshmipur Chairperson Shuai Kulesika, Vice-Chairperson Aarti Kuldeep, Kusumguda Sarpanch Indra Panjia, former MPs Jayaram Pangi and Jhin Hikaka, and representatives of Koraput and Nabarangpur MPs. Koraput Sub-Collector Premalal Hial delivered the vote of thanks, while District Cultural Officer Suryakant Behera, Lakshmipur BDO Sabyasachi Behera, and block staff managed the arrangements.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, administrative officers and public representatives joined locals in dancing to the vibrant beats of tribal music. The exhibition fair, showcasing regional crafts and traditional products, was also inaugurated on the occasion.
Earlier in the morning, members of the Parab organizing committee performed puja near the village deity at Nishanimunda in Koraput, seeking the blessings of the Mother Goddess for the success of the festival.
The ceremony was attended by MLA Raghuram Macha, Collector Manoj Satyaban Mahajan, Koraput Municipal Council Chairperson Lalat Ranjan Sethi, Additional District Collector Tapan Kumar Nayak, Zilla Parishad Chief Development Officer Benudhar Shabar, Sub-Collector Premalal Hial, and others.
