The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHAWANIPATNA, APRIL 20, 2025
In a vibrant celebration of World Art Day, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, reaffirmed its commitment to cultural preservation and community development by promoting Odisha’s indigenous art at a special event held in the tribal heartland of Kalahandi district.
Organised by Vedanta’s Sijimali Bauxite team, the cultural program was hosted at Eklavya Model Residential School in Thuamul Rampur. The event served as a creative platform for over 120 school students to explore and express the region’s rich artistic heritage through a hands-on workshop on Saura art — one of Odisha’s oldest and most revered tribal art forms.
In collaboration with faculty members from the Kalahandi College of Art and Research, the workshop introduced students to the symbolic language, intricate techniques, and cultural narratives embedded in Saura art. Through lively paintings inspired by folklore, nature, and daily tribal life, the young participants showcased remarkable creativity and enthusiasm, gaining both artistic skills and a deeper connection to their roots.
“We are grateful to Vedanta Aluminium for organizing such a meaningful event that connects our students with their cultural roots,” said Satya Prakash Satya, Headmaster of the Eklavya Model Residential School. “The Saura art workshop not only enriched their artistic skills but also strengthened their appreciation for Odisha’s tribal heritage. This initiative will go a long way in nurturing creativity and cultural pride,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Nitin Tiwari, Chief Operating Officer of Vedanta’s Bauxite Mines, emphasized the company’s broader vision: “Our community development efforts are deeply rooted in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the regions we operate in. Through events like these, we aim to inspire the younger generation to embrace their roots while exploring their creative potential.”
He added, “We’ll continue to work closely with local communities to drive sustainable development through holistic initiatives in education, health, livelihood, infrastructure development, sports, and cultural preservation.”
Vedanta’s commitment to social impact is evident in its wide-reaching programs, which have positively touched the lives of over 1.5 lakh people in 67 villages of Kalahandi and 5 lakh individuals across Odisha. Rooted in the ethos of care, collaboration, and empowerment, these efforts underscore Vedanta’s role as not just an industrial leader, but also a responsible community partner.
