Bhubaneswar: The annual Khandagiri-Udaygiri Mahotsav, commonly known as Khandagiri Mela, began today on the occasion of ‘Magha Saptami’ at the foothills of Khandagiri and Udayagiri here.
Odisha Tourism Minister Ashok Panda inaugurated the event in the presence of Bhubaneswar MLA (Central) Bijaya Kumar Mohanty, Baramunda Corporator Sujit Swain, Ghatikia Corporator Dilip Kumar Majhi and others.
In the inaugural evening, Gunjan Dance Academy from Cuttack performed Odissi dance. This was followed by the Hip Hop dance performance by Rourkela’s Rakesh and his team. Later, the visitors were mesmerized by the melodious voice of noted Ollywood singer Dipti Rekha and Omkumar.
Besides, the visitors also enjoyed the art gallery set by the Lalit Kala Academy, Bhubaneswar.
Traders and craftsmen from various parts of the country have also assembled at the Mela, which is being organized by the State Culture and Tourism department, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).
Apart from enjoying foods and cultural programmes, people will also get to watch drama or operas performed by several famous jatra parties. Besides, they can buy items such as utensils, bamboo and stone carvings and various household items.
This festival begins every year on the day of Magha Saptami, the seventh day of lunar month of Magha as per Hindu calendar. It is regarded as auspicious in Hindu religion. Saints, monks and followers of different sects of Hindu religion congregate here for the event.
The Commissionerate Police has deployed four platoons of police force to maintain law and order during the fair. Besides, CCTV cameras also have been installed in the area.
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Ms Kalinga