Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik initiated the Odisha Transformation Campaign through folk arts to raise awareness about state government welfare programs. During the program, the Chief Minister, addressing the public digitally, revealed that approximately 22,000 folk artists from across the state have registered to participate in the campaign. Over the course of a month, the campaign aims to organize more than 2 lakh programs in 51,168 villages.
Expressing the government’s commitment to promoting folk artists, Chief Minister Patnaik recalled the formation of the first artists’ association in Ganjam district in 2010 as an initial step. Subsequently, similar associations have been established at the block level in all districts. While conversing with the artists, Naveen Patnaik emphasized the integral role they play, comparing them to members of his own family, and assured ongoing support from the government for their commendable work.
The campaign will showcase traditional folk art forms such as Danda Nata, Raas, Sani Pala, Daskathia, Sankirtan, Ghoda Nach, Mogal Tamasha, Prahlad Natak, Suangi, Ramleela, Khanjani Bhajan, Bharat Leela, Sambalpuri Nritya, Ghumura Nritya, and Kendra Geet. Through these performances, the government aims to increase awareness about various government schemes and programs.
In addition to folk songs, the campaign will feature cultural programs from Bondo, Koya, Santali, and Dhemsa tribal communities. During the shows, artists will present fact-based statements, adding an informative aspect to their performances.
Odisha’s Minister of Language, Literature, and Culture, Ashwini Patra, Secretary of the Department, Sujata Kartikeyan Pandian, and President of the 5T initiative, VK Pandian, also spoke during the event. The campaign not only serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Odisha but also acts as a powerful tool to disseminate information about government initiatives through the vibrant medium of folk arts.
Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!