Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the Odisha Transformation Campaign, utilizing the expressive medium of folk arts, to disseminate awareness about the various welfare programs initiated by the state government.
Addressing the digital launch of the program, the chief minister shared that approximately 22,000 folk artists from across the state have registered to actively participate in the campaign. Over 2 lakh programs are scheduled to take place in 51,168 villages throughout the month-long initiative.
Expressing the government’s dedication to promoting folk artists, Naveen Patnaik recalled the establishment of an artists’ association in Ganjam district as the initial step in 2010. Subsequently, this model has been implemented at the block level in all districts.
In a conversation with the participating artists, the Chief Minister remarked, “The artists are like members of my family. You keep on doing good works, and the government will continue to extend all possible support to you.”
Throughout the campaign, artists will utilize traditional folk dance forms, including Danda Nacha, Rasa, Sani Pala, Daskathia, Sankirtan, Ghoda Nacha, Mogal Tamasha, Prahllad Natak, Suang, Ramlila, Khanjani Bhajan, Kendara song, Bhratlila, Sambalpuri dance, and Ghumura dance, to raise awareness about government schemes and programs.
Additionally, programs featuring folk songs of Banda, Koya, Santali, and Dhemsa tribal communities will be organized. The artists aim to present fact-based narrations during their performances.
The event saw the participation and remarks of Aswini Patra, Minister of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, Sujata Kartikeya Pandian, Secretary of the Department, and VK Pandian, Chairman of 5T.