Koraput, 13th Nov 2025: The National-Level Lok Mahotsav Porab Festival 2025 has commenced with great enthusiasm. The celebration began at Kutunipadar, under the Lakshmipur Block, after rituals and worship at the Sahasra Shivalinga Temple. Following the prayers, the ceremonial torch of the festival was lit and carried in a grand torch procession from the temple to the inauguration stage.
The festival was formally inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the distinguished guests. The event was organized under the chairmanship of Koraput District Collector and District Cultural Council President, Manoj Satyaban Mahajan.
Among the dignitaries present were Koraput MLA Raghuram Machh, Pottangi MLA Ramchandra Kadam, Lakshmipur MLA Pavitra Saunta, Kotpad MLA Rupu Bhatra, and Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sasmita Meleka, who graced the event as chief guests. The District Collector administered the festival oath.
On this occasion, the festival poster and stickers were unveiled by the guests. The dignitaries on stage delivered speeches highlighting the significance and legacy of the Lok Mahotsav, emphasizing how it provides a platform to showcase the hidden talents of the district.
Started in 1996, the festival was aimed at promoting and guiding local cultural talent, and over the years, it has achieved remarkable success, said MLA Pavitra Saunta and Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sasmita Meleka.
Other notable attendees included Lakshmipur Block Chairperson Shuai Kulesika, Vice Chairperson Arati Kuldeep, Kusumguda Sarpanch Indra Panjia, former MP Jayaram Pangi, Jhin Hikaka, and representatives of Koraput and Nabarangpur MPs.
Koraput Deputy Collector Premlal Hial delivered the vote of thanks. The event was coordinated by District Culture Officer Suryakanta Behera, Lakshmipur BDO Sabyasachi Behera, and other block officials.
A memorable moment of the celebration was when administrative officers and MLAs joined in dancing to the rhythm of tribal music and drums. The guests also inaugurated the exhibition fair associated with the festival.
Earlier in the morning, at Nishanimunda in Koraput, members of the festival organizing committee performed rituals and prayers before the village deity to seek blessings for the success of the festival. The prayer ceremony was attended by Koraput MLA Raghuram Machh, District Collector Manoj Satyaban Mahajan, and other dignitaries.
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