The Business Bytes
Koraput, November 29, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a remarkable gesture that reaffirms its commitment to the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s rich cultural traditions, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has provided vital infrastructural support to PARAB-2024, an annual tribal and folk festival that celebrates the vibrant cultural heritage of the local tribal communities in the region. Held near the Kodingamali mines in the Laxmipur block of Koraput district, the festival attracted over 5,000 attendees, highlighting the rich tapestry of tribal art, music, dance, and culture.
The festival, organized by the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Laxmipur, saw the presence of local MLA Pabitra Saunta as the Chief Guest, along with Block Chairman Suaai Kulesika, Sarpanches, and Samiti Members from Laxmipur block, who attended as honourable guests. Their participation underscored the importance of the event in the region’s cultural calendar.
Speaking at the event, Gureswar Bhoi, BDO of Laxmipur, expressed his gratitude to Vedanta for its support, emphasizing the company’s role in strengthening grassroots cultural initiatives. “PARAB is an annual festival that promotes and preserves 
the rich culture of Odisha. I thank Vedanta for extending its support for grassroots cultural initiatives and encouraging the local community,” Bhoi said.
The PARAB festival provided a platform for local artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and students to showcase their talents and skills, offering them recognition and growth opportunities within the community. This initiative is in line with Vedanta’s ongoing efforts to empower and uplift the local population through cultural and economic engagement.
Vedanta’s commitment to supporting regional culture goes beyond PARAB-2024. The company has been actively involved in various initiatives to foster local art and culture, including its support for the world’s longest Sambalpuri theatre production in Sundargarh, the celebration of World Tribal Day in Koraput, the Namayagnya celebrations, and the Bahuda Yatra in Jamkani. Through these efforts, Vedanta aims to provide long-term visibility and growth for traditional art forms while creating opportunities for the local community.
In a significant move last year, Vedanta also felicitated Padma Shri awardee Jitendra Haripal, a renowned Sambalpuri folk singer, in recognition of his invaluable contributions to Odia culture. Haripal, famous for his iconic songs ‘Rangabati’ and ‘Chhaeli’, has played a key role in popularizing Odia music, both within India and beyond its borders.
Vedanta Aluminium’s commitment to supporting the preservation and growth of traditional art and culture in Odisha reflects its deep-rooted philosophy of inclusive development. The company believes that fostering the talent of local artists not only enhances the cultural vibrancy of the region but also ensures that the traditional art practices are preserved for future generations.
