Umerkote, Jan, 15: The first annual function of Podagada Adarsha Ban Vidyalaya, which was established in 2025 at Podagada, the headquarters village of Bhandariguda Gram Panchayat under Umerkote Block in Nabarangpur district, was celebrated with great grandeur in 2026.
The programme was held under the chairmanship of the school’s founder Dr. Kailash Chandra Behera. The Chief Guest was Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Shubhendhu Kumar Sabar. The Guest of Honour was Municipal Executive Officer Alok Kumar Anugulia. The distinguished guests included Nabarangpur advocate and State Bar Association Vice-President Narsingh Tripathy, Manoranjan Tripathy, a descendant of a freedom fighter family and President of the State Memorial Committee, Aser Jani, a lawyer of Dabugaon and a leader of tribal and labour communities, along with Uddhav Charan Nayak (President of the school), Krushna Chandra Pattnaik (Vice-President), parents, guardians and many eminent persons.
The programme began with floral tributes, lighting of lamps, incense offering and breaking of coconuts before the idol of Lord Ganesha for auspiciousness. This was followed by a welcome dance performed by two groups of girl students, which delighted all the guests.
Guruji Jagadish Bhadra presented the annual report of the school. The guests, through their speeches and stories, motivated the young students to work towards building a bright future for Odisha.
On this occasion, two eminent personalities were honoured —
Manoranjan Tripathy was conferred with the “Veer Chauria Award”, and
Advocate Narsingh Tripathy was honoured with the “Baba Bhairav Award”.
They were felicitated with mementos by the Podagada Charitable Trust and Adarsha Ban Vidyalaya.
Meritorious students who performed well in various sports competitions were awarded certificates, cups and shields by the guests on the annual function stage.
The cultural performances by the students added great charm and entertainment to the programme.
Among the teachers who actively contributed were Headmistress Jayshree Behera, Subhashree Behera, Niharika Mahanti, Sabita Santa, Mamata Bhadra, Pramila Bhatra, Anita Santa, Sanjukta Santa, Parbati Harijan, along with Madal Pujari, Maniram Bisoi and Rosheya Abinash Seth. Karuna Pujari efficiently conducted the stage proceedings.
A delicious feast was prepared for all by the cooks, and the tasty food made everyone very happy and satisfied.