The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
RAYAGADA (ODISHA), JANUARY 6, 2025
Vedanta Aluminium’s stall at the Chaiti Mahotsav, held in Odisha’s Rayagada district, emerged as the centerpiece of the festival, drawing the attention of over 25,000 visitors. The stall featured a mesmerizing blend of traditional tribal art forms, including Saura paintings and Dokra art, alongside products crafted by self-help groups (SHGs) under Vedanta’s Project Sakhi, which empowers women as micro-entrepreneurs. The live Saura art hand-painting counter added an interactive element, allowing visitors to witness the creation of these intricate artworks firsthand.
The stall also proudly showcased exhibits from Vedanta’s recently acquired hockey team, the Kalinga Lancers, who are the defending champions in the ongoing Hockey India League (HIL). The display, featuring the team’s mascot, player highlights, and the championship trophy, created a dynamic engagement platform that resonated with sports enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The dignitaries attending the event included Kadraka Allapaswamy, MLA of Rayagada; Nilamadhab Hikaka, MLA of Bisamcuttack; Parul Patawari, Collector & District Magistrate of Rayagada; and Swathy S Kumar, Superintendent of Police, Rayagada. Their presence underscored the significance of Vedanta’s contributions to the festival.
Commending Vedanta’s efforts, MLA Kadraka Allapaswamy said, “Vedanta Aluminium’s involvement in Chaiti Mahotsav not only highlights their dedication to cultural heritage but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the socio-economic fabric of our community. Their efforts to support local artisans and promote traditional crafts are commendable.”
Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Vedanta Aluminium, emphasized the company’s commitment to cultural and community development, saying, “Our participation in Chaiti Mahotsav reflects our dedication to supporting local artisans and promoting indigenous art forms. By engaging with the community in this way, we foster a spirit of entrepreneurship that empowers individuals and enriches our cultural landscape.”
Vedanta Aluminium’s active participation in Chaiti Mahotsav provided a platform for local artisans, SHGs, and students to showcase their talents and projects, offering them a chance for wider recognition and growth. This initiative reinforces the company’s role in championing cultural preservation while driving socio-economic development in Rayagada.
Since its inception in 2005, Chaiti Mahotsav has celebrated the rich tribal heritage of the region, serving as a vibrant platform for promoting tribal art and culture. The festival draws over 500 artists from across the nation, showcasing India’s diverse traditions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural wealth.
