By Himanshu Guru & Radhakrishna Mishra: The 13th Lok Utsav kicked off at the Koshal Kala Mandal in Balangir on 19th January 13. The fete will continue for four days. A number of artists in and out of the state are performing in this glittering festival.
On 19th January 13 all participants of the festival walked across the town in a carnival attired in traditional outfits following the Lok Utsav flag hoisting at 9 A.M. in the morning. In the evening, a meeting was held after inauguration of the Pallishree Mela. While Balangir M.L.A. Sri A.U. Singhdeo, Balangir MP Sri Kalikesh Singhdeo, Fishery development Corporation Chairman Mr. Abhimanyu Kushal and Mr. Sanjeev Marik, A.D.G., Odisha were the revered guests in the occasion, Balangir District Collector Mr. Debraj Mishra presided over the function.
A U Singhdeo described Lok Utsav to be an ideal platform for the artists to showcase their artistic talent. He also proposed to publish a magazine on the art and culture of the district.
Kalikesh Singhdeo expressed his joy to be a part of the Lok Utsav and said that day by day the celebration is flourishing. He was also happy as the same has started a market of itself where people can get products from other states.
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In the cultural programme, Pushpita Mishra and her group performed an Odishi dance followed by the artists of Dulduli Kala Parishad, who performed Sambalpuri dance. The next event was Baripada’s Chhau, which was followed by Dhap music by Jharmali Kalaparishad, Balangir. A lot of other programs were also held after that.
On the 2nd day on 20th January 13, Patnagarh MLA KV Singhdeo and Titlagarh MLA Surendra Singh Bhoi graced the occasion as guests while the District Collector presided over the function. In the cultural programme, renowned cultural institutions of Balangir Radharani Sanskrutik Sansad and Pancham presented Sambalpuri dances and the Cuttack group presented ‘Ghodanach’ (Horse dance). It was followed by a number of other performances.
About 300 kiosks have been installed in the ground including around 80 kiosks of Pallishree Mela. Large number people are visiting the fair daily.
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