Utkal Diwas at Steel Plant

Visakhapatnam: Cultural events with a lace of patriotic songs, drama and dance marked the Utkal Diwas organised by Utkalika Cultural Association of Ukkkunagaram at Sri Jagannath temple complex. The cultural fiesta began with an inaugural dance show on Odia patriotic song ‘Bande Utkala Janani’ performed by the children. Group dance on the song ‘Odia Pua Bhari Swabhimani’ and ‘Phula Baulabeni’ from popular Odia album ‘Ama Odissa’ was staged by the small children which reminded the audience of fascinating culture of Odisha.
The children who participated include Priyanka, Tanisha, Deepsikha, Manali, Anwesha, Sunayana, Sadhana, Amrita, Akankhsya, Sujal, Rian, Kakan, Ohm, Aariyaan, Mayank and Arnab.
Later, an Odia drama ‘Sarba Geela’ on the theme black money, written and directed by association secretary A P Sahu was staged by UCA members which thrilled the audience. R P Sahoo, city-based notable playwright and director of many Odia dramas, also participated in the drama in a guest role. The group performed to its full potential, said Debasish Ray, Executive Director of RINL.
The members, who participated in the drama, were Lalat, Prafulla, Dwijasis, Chakradhara, Syam Sundar, Subrat, Sudhansu, Anand, Prakash, Chitta, Bijay and Beda Prakash.
Earlier, P C Mohapatra, Director (Project), RINL, who was chief guest on the occasion, paid rich tributes to the founding fathers Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das and Utkala Gauraba Madhusudan Das. He said Odisha has rich cultural heritage and architecture. Celebration of formation day and other important occasions help Odias residing outside the state to stay in touch and uphold their rich cultural heritage, tradition and values.