The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES.COM
KALAHANDI, JANUARY 16, 2025
The 27th Kalahandi Utsav – Ghumura 2025 – witnessed an inspiring blend of tradition and progress as Vedanta Lanjigarh, India’s leading producer of metallurgical-grade alumina and a subsidiary of Vedanta Aluminium, unveiled a stall showcasing its transformative community development initiatives. From the very first day, the stall became a focal point of the festival, captivating visitors with its commitment to sustainable growth and cultural preservation.
A standout feature at the Vedanta booth was the display from Project Adikala, an initiative dedicated to reviving India’s ancient art forms, Saura and Dhokra. These traditional crafts, now rejuvenated, empower over 200 rural families with sustainable livelihoods. Alongside these artistic wonders were organic products from Project Sakhi, crafted by more than 4,000 women, reflecting Vedanta’s mission to foster economic independence among rural women.
The stall also offered a fascinating insight into the aluminium journey, demonstrating the transformation of bauxite ore into high-quality aluminium products at Vedanta’s advanced plants. The emphasis on the company’s environmentally conscious operations highlighted its alignment with sustainable development principles.
The inauguration of the Vedanta stall was a significant moment, jointly conducted by Kalahandi Member of Parliament (MP) Malvika Devi and District Collector Sachin Pawar. Both dignitaries lauded Vedanta’s role in blending cultural heritage with modern development.
“Kalahandi Utsav is a vibrant celebration of our cultural heritage and a testament to our district’s progress. Vedanta’s initiatives, particularly in supporting local artisans and empowering women, are truly commendable,” said Malvika Devi. She expressed her admiration for Vedanta’s community-centric approach and its impact on local livelihoods.
District Collector Sachin Pawar echoed these sentiments, emphasizing, “Kalahandi Utsav is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of our region’s heritage and community spirit. Vedanta’s efforts in education, healthcare, and skill development showcase how industrial growth can harmonize with cultural preservation.”
Sharing his pride in participating in the event, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, CEO of Vedanta Alumina Business, said: “Kalahandi Utsav is a celebration of the soul of this region, and Vedanta is honored to contribute. We aim to demonstrate our commitment to preserving Kalahandi’s rich heritage while supporting its people through education, health, and livelihood initiatives.”
The 27th Kalahandi Utsav stands as a testament to the perfect harmony of tradition and progress, with Vedanta Lanjigarh playing a pivotal role in driving this blend of cultural celebration and socio-economic development.
