Koraput , Dec, 29: The main ceremony of the National-Level Folk Festival Parab–2025 was inaugurated on Thursday evening at the permanent Parab ground. Minister for Urban Development, Krishna Chandra Mahapatra, attended the event as the Chief Guest and first inaugurated the Pallishree Mela.
Subsequently, at the main Parab ceremony held under the chairmanship of District Collector and Parab Committee Chairman Manoj Satyaban Mahajan, Minister Mahapatra formally inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. In his address, the Chief Guest said that culture is the identity of a nation and a symbol of our self-respect, and therefore, it is essential to preserve and promote our culture and traditions through festivals like Parab.
He stated that Parab provides a distinct identity to the culture and heritage of Koraput, and that products made by tribal communities are purchased by domestic and foreign tourists during the festival, which helps in improving the economic condition of tribal artisans. He further said that Parab receiving recognition as a national tribal festival is a matter of pride for everyone. The Minister emphasized the importance of celebrating Parab to preserve and sustain tribal culture and traditions.
Students of Koraput Shishu Vidya Mandir presented the patriotic song Vande Mataram. While the District Collector delivered the welcome address, Additional District Collector Tapan Kumar Nayak proposed the vote of thanks.
At the end of the ceremony, guests honored individuals and artists who had achieved excellence in various fields. Among the distinguished guests present were Koraput MLA Raghuram Machh, Pottangi MLA Ram Chandra Kadam, Laxmipur MLA Pabitra Saunta, Kotpad MLA Rupa Bhatra, Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sasmita Meleka, and SP Rohit Verma. They highlighted the objectives and significance of Parab and felicitated achievers and artists.
On the first night of Parab, cultural performances including Dhemsa dance of the Duruwa community, Odissi dance, Kathi dance from Mastiput, Dhemsa, Santali dance, and musical performances by renowned vocalist Umakanta Barik enthralled the audience.