SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) and Bhanja Cultural Trust jointly organized ‘Kumar Utsav – 2024’ a grand cultural fest to mark the popular Odia festival Kumar Purnima on 17th October, 2024 at Civic Centre, Rourkela. Mr. Traun Misra, ED (HR) with additional charge of ED (Projects) and Chairman, Bhanja Cultural Trust was the Chief Guest of the function. Mr. Alok Verma, ED (Mines) with additional charge of ED (Works), Mr. P K Swain, CGM In-Charge (TA&CSR), Mr. Anil Kumar, CGM In-Charge (MM), Dr. Jayant Acharya, CMO In-Charge (M&HS), from RSP, Mrs. Pravati Misra, & Mrs. Namrata Verma, both Vice Presidents of Deepika Mahila Sanghati, representatives from Unions and Officers’ Association, members of various socio-cultural organizations, many Senior Officers of RSP and culture lovers of Rourkela were present in the function.
The Chief Guest along with other dignitaries worshipped Moon at the beautifully crafted Tulasi Chaura, paid obeisance to Lord Jagannath, and lighted the ceremonial lamp to mark the commencement of the celebrations.
Mr. Misra in his speech extended heartiest wishes of the auspicious day to all the Rourkelites and highly appreciated the efforts of Bhanja Cultural Trust to preserve and promote Odisha’s rich art, literature and culture.
Mr. Misra felicitated two distinguished personalities namely eminent litterateur and academician, Mr. Jitendra Narayan Dash popularly known as Dash Benhur and renowned Odissi Guru Sushree Sangeet Dash with ‘Kumar Utsav Samman’ during the event. Both the recipients applauded the efforts of Bhanja Cultural Trust and RSP for organizing such a grand function to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of Odisha.
The cultural evening started with the traditional folk dance ‘Kuanra Punei Jahna Go..’ by the artists from Bhanja Kala Kendra depicting the rituals and sentiments related to Kumar Purnima.
The star-studded cultural evening witnessed riveting vocal performances comprising old and new Odia songs by the popular Ollywood singer, Mr. Swayam Padhi and his troupe.
At the outset, Mr. P K Swain, in his welcome address, reiterated the commitment of Bhanja Cultural Trust uphold Odia language, literature, culture and heritage.
Mr. Anil Mallick, MOMT, SSM coordinated the program. During the lighting of the lamp, Guru Shri Jyotirmaya Acharya recited the Vedic Mantra. Mr. Jeevan Ballabh Patnaik, GM (Fire Services) & General Secretary, Bhanja Cultural Trust delivered the vote of thanks.
