Daspalla: (Reported by Subas Chandra Barik): The Dasapalla Mandal-level Children's Festival, known as Suravi-2024, took place recently at the Khamarasahi Nodal High School premises. This cultural extravaganza highlighted the theme "Odisha's Folk Art" and celebrated the rich traditions of the region. The event saw participation from students across 13 clusters of Dasapalla Block, showcasing not only their talent but also the cultural heritage of the state.
Inaugural Ceremony
The inauguration of the festival was a grand affair, attended by dignitaries from various walks of life. The principal guest, MLA Ramesh Chandra Behera, and other honored guests such as Smruti Ranjan Behera, Tehsildar of Dasapalla, Sarada Prasad Mohanty, BDO of Dasapalla, and officials like Shyam Sundar Jani, Rajendra Prasad Khatei, Gopabandhu Dehury (ABDO), and Bhakti Binod Sal, BEO of Dasapalla, graced the occasion. The event commenced under the chairmanship of Headmistress Kumudini Dei, setting the stage for a day filled with festivities.
In his opening address, MLA Ramesh Chandra Behera emphasized the significance of such cultural events in preserving and promoting Odisha’s folk traditions. He applauded the efforts of the organizers for creating a platform that not only celebrates culture but also encourages young minds to take pride in their heritage.
Competitions and Participation
The festival was a true celebration of talent as it brought together students from 13 clusters within Dasapalla Block, engaging them in various cultural and artistic competitions. These activities aimed at honing the skills of the children, while also instilling a deeper understanding of Odisha’s rich folk culture. From folk dance performances to painting competitions, the children showcased their creativity and passion.
Each performance was a vibrant representation of the local traditions and folklore. The participants, dressed in traditional attire, performed with energy and enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of Odisha’s folk art. These performances were not just entertaining but also educational, teaching the younger generation about their cultural roots.
Felicitations and Encouragement
The closing ceremony was marked by the presence of distinguished guests, including Sunanda Sahu, Chairman of Panchayat Samiti Dasapalla, Punam Priyadarshini, President of Vigyanpith Anchal Parishad, Kishore Chandra Dal Behera, MP representative, and Rajashree Patnaik, District Education Officer of Nayagarh. They collectively applauded the young participants for their stellar performances and encouraged them to continue nurturing their talents.
The chief guests also took the opportunity to present awards to the winners of the competitions. Students who excelled in various events were recognized and honored, boosting their confidence and motivating others to strive for excellence. The presence of these high-ranking officials further elevated the prestige of the event and served as a testament to the importance of cultural education in the region.
Contribution of Organizers and Teachers
The success of Suravi-2024 can largely be attributed to the relentless efforts of the teachers and organizers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival. Teachers like Sushanta Kumar Sahu, Lakshmidhara Sahoo, Suryamani Mohapatra, Subodh Kumar Sahoo, Bighneswar Behera, Dilip Kumar Nayak, Sarat Behera, and Trinath Sahu played pivotal roles in coordinating the event.
Their collective efforts ensured that the children received the necessary guidance and support to perform their best. From organizing the performances to managing the logistics, these educators went above and beyond their usual duties to make the event a grand success. Their contribution not only helped the event run smoothly but also inspired the students to push their creative boundaries.
Importance of Children's Festivals in Preserving Culture 
Events like Suravi-2024 play a crucial role in keeping the cultural fabric of Odisha alive. In today’s fast-paced world, there is a growing disconnect between the younger generation and traditional art forms. Festivals like these bridge that gap by offering children a chance to learn, experience, and perform their native art forms.
By participating in such festivals, students develop a sense of pride and appreciation for their heritage. Moreover, these events provide a platform for children to express themselves creatively, fostering their growth both as individuals and as future cultural ambassadors of Odisha.
The theme "Odisha’s Folk Art" resonates deeply with the state’s identity. Odisha has a long and illustrious history of folk traditions, from dance forms like Gotipua and Chhau to vibrant Pattachitra paintings. By focusing on these folk art forms, Suravi-2024 not only promotes cultural awareness but also ensures that these traditions are passed on to future generations.
Looking Ahead
As Suravi-2024 concluded with much celebration, it left an indelible mark on all who attended. The festival was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of the art, culture, and tradition that defines Odisha. The event fostered a sense of community and cultural pride, leaving the participants inspired to explore their heritage further.
With the success of this year’s festival, there is much anticipation for future editions of Suravi. The overwhelming participation and enthusiastic performances have set a high standard for the coming years, ensuring that the celebration of Odisha’s folk art will continue to thrive.
In the end, Suravi-2024 was a reflection of the spirit of Odisha’s youth—bright, creative, and deeply rooted in their cultural identity. Events like these remind us of the importance of preserving our traditions while also encouraging the next generation to carry forward the legacy of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.