Chaiti Mahotsav: Celebrating Tribal India.
"Sub continental 'Chaiti' is introduced."
- "Dharitri"
In Gunpur of Rayagada district, a poetry festival was held for two days with regional poet Kabi Yatri. Additional Tahsildar Anshuman Parida was the chief guest, and Principal Hemanand Bariha attended as the keynote speaker. Literary figures such as Simanchal Kar, Pravat Satapathy, and Kailash Chandra Dash were also present. A total of 45 poems were recited at the first poetry festival organized under the coordination of poet Durga Prasad Satapathy and young poet Pranabakalp Patnaik. Poet Ashwini Tripathy delivered the welcome speech, and poet Ramesh Chandra Mishra delivered the vote of thanks. An exhibition of Odisha Cuisine was organized by local women. Participants in both programs were issued certificates.
District Special Development Council President Shrimati Anshuya Majhi attended the evening function under the chairmanship of Deputy Collector Lalit Kumar Kaur as the chief guest.
Courtesy - Pradeep. Kumar Padhi
MLA Raghunath Gomango, Municipal Commissioner Mamata Gouda, Block President Jhili Shabar, District Council President Saraswati Majhi, Rayagada ITDA PA Dilip Behera, Additional District Collector Vaskar Raita, Ama Odisha Naveen Odisha Coordinator V. Gauri Shankar, Backward Advisor Prithviraj Sahu, and Dr. Chandradhwaj Panda were on the stage. Singer Sangeeta Padhi from Brahmapur enthralled the audience. Students from various educational institutions performed cultural programs. Municipal Executive Officer Swastik conducted the Jamadar Manch. Vijay Gomango gave the vote of thanks.
Translated to English by Cyberfair team
Tribal Fair
The tribal fair held during Chaiti in Rayagada celebrates indigenous craftsmanship and cultural richness. Artisans showcase Lau Tumba crafts, spices, chandua applique work, textiles, paintings, and natural fire handicrafts. The fair exemplifies year-round dedication and hard work of tribal people in preserving traditional arts.
The fair provides vital income for artisans, especially Mothers of Self-Help Groups and tribal communities, supporting livelihoods and families. It brings attention to the uniqueness of their crafts, attracting visitors and buyers. The event fosters pride, recognition, and community bonding among artisans, highlighting the importance of preserving their cultural heritage for future generations.
During the auspicious occasion of Chaiti, a tribal fair unfolded in the heart of Rayagada, becoming a beacon of economic prosperity for the region. The event garnered an astounding revenue of 4 crores within a span of just five days. This remarkable success can be attributed to the vibrant participation of various stakeholders, including the indigenous communities who showcased their traditional crafts, cultural performances, and agricultural produce. Moreover, the Mothers of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) played a pivotal role in contributing to the financial triumph. These enterprising women actively engaged in selling handmade crafts, organic products, and culinary delights, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The revenue generated not only reflects the economic significance of the tribal fair but also underscores the positive impact on the livelihoods of the tribal people, empowering them to create sustainable incomes and fostering overall community development.
Artist Himanshu Sekhar Pandia created Lau Tumba art inspired by tribal culture using dry bottle gourd for vessels. People in various countries are now using bottle gourd for crafting. Pandia, a JJ School of Fine Art alumnus, learned the craft from the internet.
Lau Tumba Craft
Spices and pickles are something that attract the attention of a lot of people at the fair. Spices like turmeric, Navratna dal, Moong dal, etc and Pickles like mango It's the purity, quality, and richness of taste of the spices and pickles, which cannot be found anywhere else, that gives it a special place of its own in the bag of the buyers.
Spices and Pickles
Chandua, a special type of apllique work originating from Pipli of Odisha, also finds its place in forefront of the fair. Its unique design and particularly the fine handwork are what that make it stand out
Applique Work
(Chandua)
At the fair, a wide variety of paintings are on display and also for sale, each showcasing unique and diverse styles of art.
Paintings
Many artisans showcase and sell handcrafted commodities made out of natural fibres like bamboo and jute. The most sought after are vanity bags made out of jute and various other decor items such as jewelry boxes, trays, flower vases, etc. which are primarily made out of bamboo.
Natrual Fibre Handicrafts
It is one of the prime attention grabbers in the fair, with a separate Food section. The menu includes many sweet, savory and spicy foods that appease the taste buds of people. Foods include Chowmein, Manchurian, Samosas, Jalebi, Chaat, Mathura Cakes and Stuffed Rolls.
Fast Food
Hover over the elements to learn more
Textiles of various kinds and various origins also find a way into the fair. The vibrance, quality, and unique styles of the textiles speak for themselves. The distinctive embroidery, stitchwork, and especially the elegance of the ones made by hand are enough to catch the sight of the by-passers.
Textiles
Many visionary students, professionals and NGOs put up presentations and projects to make people known and aware of pressing issues and modern ideas.
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Exhibition
Sports
Preceding the grandeur of the Chaiti fair in Rayagada, an exhilarating array of sports competitions sets the stage, captivating participants and spectators alike. Aimed at fostering community engagement and physical well-being, the sports competitions cater to individuals across diverse age groups, spanning from 15 to 60 years. The spirited events include a mini-marathon, volleyball, kabaddi, tug of war, and a slow cycle race for both boys and girls, showcasing the athletic prowess of the district's youth. The competitive spirit extends beyond the younger demographics, with unique events like tug of war games specifically designed for civil press and media members, as well as officers, fostering camaraderie and healthy competition.
Tricycle Race
Courtesy - K. Satish
Kabaddi (Transgender)
Courtesy - K. Satish
Volleyball
Courtesy - K. Satish
Badminton
Courtesy - K. Satish
Notably, the sports competitions extend inclusivity by featuring a walking competition tailored for seniors, a tricycle marathon for differently-abled individuals, and a weightlifting category. This comprehensive approach ensures that people of all abilities and ages actively participate, promoting the spirit of inclusivity and unity within the community. The benefits derived from these sports competitions are manifold. Beyond the obvious physical advantages, the events promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and a sense of community pride. Participants find an avenue for honing their athletic skills, enhancing their overall health, and fostering a deeper connection with the local community.
Mini Marathon
Courtesy - Dist. Collector Rayagada
Kabaddi (Girls)
Courtesy - Dist. Collector Rayagada
Moreover, the sports competitions serve as a unifying force, bringing together people from different walks of life and backgrounds. As participants challenge themselves and each other, the events become a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people of Rayagada. The success of these sports competitions lies not only in the medals and accolades earned but in the collective sense of achievement and community that resonates throughout the entire district.
Kabaddi (Boys)
Courtesy - Dist. Collector Rayagada
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