Bhubaneswar: The vibrant spirit of Mayurbhanj is all set to take centre stage as Mayurbhanj Utsav, a three-day cultural extravaganza organised by the Mayurbhanj Cultural Association, kicks off on January 30 at Utkal Mandap in the city.
The festival promises a colourful celebration of the district’s rich cultural legacy, traditional handlooms and handicrafts, and its much-loved cuisine.
Details about the festival were shared at a press conference held on Wednesday.
Informing about the festival, general secretary of the association, Dr Rajani Kanta Biswal said, “The festival will showcase Mayurbhanj Chhau, Jhumar dance and other tribal dance forms. At the same time, there will be stalls exhibiting the district’s handlooms and handicrafts. Food lovers will be in for a treat with authentic delicacies like ‘Mudhi Mansha’ (puffed rice and mutton curry), Dala Khechudi and Ram Ruchuka Curry on offer.”
Highlighting the boarder vision of the festival, Dr Biswal said that the festival serves as a platform for the lesser-known talented artistes from the district, while also bringing together the people of Mayurbhanj based in and around the capital, fostering a sense of community and cultural bonding.
Echoing the sentiment, cultural secretary of the association and Ollywood actor Sukant Rath said, “For the three days, the venue will transform into a miniature Mayurbhanj. Apart from, Chhau, Jhumar and other tribal dance forms, the audience will also enjoy modern and contemporary dance performances. This year’s star attractions include Babushan, Papu Pom Pom and Swaraj.”
It was also informed at the press meet that the festival will start daily from 6.00 pm to 10 pm, with free entry for all.
Besides the festival being regarded as a much-awaited event for Mayurbhanj people living in and around Bhubaneswar, it has also been a favourite for art connoisseurs and food enthusiasts.
The press conference was also attended by the association’s secretary Swarup Ranjan Das, cultural secretary Chinmaya Das Pattanayak and organizing committee members Gokul Chandra Das and Sanjeeb Acharya.
Established in 1978, the Mayurbhanj Cultural Association hosted the first edition of Mayubrbhanj Utsav in 2011.
