Bhubaneswar: The five-day state-level children’s festival ‘MAHAK-2026’ kicked off at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, bringing together talented children from Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across Odisha to showcase their creativity and artistic abilities.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the festival by releasing balloons into the sky at the Practice Ground of Kalinga Stadium. Addressing the participants, she appreciated their talent, confidence and enthusiasm and encouraged them to dream big and work towards a bright future.
Emphasising the need to ensure dignity, equal opportunities and proper guidance for every child in need of care and protection, Parida said the state government was committed to supporting them and creating an enabling environment for the fulfilment of their aspirations.
Minister for Law, Works and Excise Prithviraj Harichandan, who attended the inaugural ceremony as the Guest of Honour, praised the determination, enthusiasm and confidence of the participating children.
The Department of Women and Child Development also unveiled the ‘Orphan Survey Report 2025’ on the occasion.
The programme began with children from Adruta Shishu Gruha, Khordha, rendering the State Anthem, ‘Bande Utkala Janani’.
Children who secured top positions at district-level festivals across all 30 districts of Odisha are participating in the state-level event.
A series of competitions, including dance, music, painting, debate and quiz, will be organised during the festival to provide children with opportunities to express their creativity, hone their skills and build confidence.
The five-day event, scheduled from November 3 to 7, has been divided into two segments. The first two days are dedicated to ‘MAHAK’, focusing on arts, creativity and cultural expression, while the subsequent three days will feature ‘UTSAH’, centred on sports and the holistic development of children’s talents.
Winners of the MAHAK competitions will be felicitated at the concluding ceremony scheduled for November 4, officials said.
The festival is being organised by the Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS) under the Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department Dr. Mrinalini Darswal, Director Monisha Banerjee and other senior officials were present at the inaugural ceremony.
