Koraput : Every year during this time, devotees gather at the Pakuli Cave of Mali Mountain in Semiliguda block of Koraput district to perform nature worship as part of the Chaitra Festival and Dhangar Yatra. Rooted in tribal culture and tradition, this festival draws people with deep faith and devotion to worship the deity “Thakurani” residing in the cave.
Traditional rituals were performed to worship the deity, and on this occasion, the Mali Mountain Protection Committee organized an exhibition. The exhibition showcased photographs of the 22-year-long struggle to protect the mountain, highlighting the resilience and unity of the local communities since 2003.
Thousands of tribal devotees offer prayers to Pakuli Thakurani during this sacred time. The celebration is also marked by traditional dance and music, particularly the famous “Dhemsa” dance. The Pakuli Cave can accommodate around five to six thousand people, and visitors are captivated by its natural beauty and cultural richness. Nature lovers and tribals alike have demanded that this site be recognized as a tourist destination.
Today’s event saw the presence of Mali Mountain Protection Committee president Bijay Khul, Dasi Nandibali, former BJP MLA candidate Chaitanya Nandibali, Niran Khul, former MP Jayaram Pangi, Samba Pangi, Sarpanchs of 8 Gram Panchayats, committee members, and over three thousand villagers.
It is worth noting that for the past 22 years, the Mali Mountain Protection Committee has been actively fighting to save this mountain. The committee now hopes that the current BJP government will ensure the just and rightful protection of Mali Mountain.