Murmu oath-taking: Odisha plans big bash

Bhubaneswar: A long-drawn celebration, which started since Droupadi Murmu was named as NDA’s presidential candidate on June 21, is all set to reach a crescendo when she takes oath on Monday.
“It is a historic moment for her as well as for Odisha. It is a big day on Monday. We will ensure it is celebrated in a grand manner,” said Sakuntala Tudu, a resident of Uperbeda village in Mayurbhanj district.
The villagers have decided to watch Droupadi’s swearing-in ceremony on TV together. Distribution of sweets and hosting of community feasts are on in the village for the past few days.
“We have reasons to rejoice as our village was nondescript until a few days back. Now, we are proud to be part of the village where the President was born. We have plans to distribute sweets and dance and sing on Monday when she takes oath,” said Sanatan Swain, another villager.
The BJP state unit is also planning to celebrate Murmu’s oath-taking in a grand manner.
Murmu’s sister-in-law Sukri Tudu and her husband Tarinisen Tudu have travelled to Delhi to take part in the swearing-in ceremony. “I have taken a Santali traditional saree for Didi. I am not aware of Rashtrapati Bhawan protocol, but I would request her to wear it when she takes oath,” Sukri said.
Santali sarees have stripes on one end and are worn by the women on special occasions. The saree is vertically symmetrical and has both the ends designed with the same motifs.
“I have also carried Didi’s favourite Arisa Pitha (a sweet pancake) with me to Delhi. She loves the Pitha,” Sukri said. Murmu’s daughter Itishree, a bank officer, and her husband Ganesh Hembram, are already in Delhi.