Bhubaneswar: Children from Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across Odisha came together to showcase their talents and creativity as the five-day State-Level Children’s Festival ‘MAHAK-2026’ began at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.
Organised by the Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS) under the Department of Women and Child Development, the festival provides a platform for children under care and protection to display their artistic abilities, build confidence and interact with peers from across the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the festival by releasing balloons into the sky. Addressing the gathering, she appreciated the talent, confidence and enthusiasm of the participating children and encouraged them to pursue their dreams without limitations.
Emphasising the need to ensure dignity, equal opportunities and proper guidance for every child under care and protection, Parida assured that the state government would continue to support them in building a bright and secure future.
Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan attended the inaugural ceremony as the Guest of Honour and appreciated the determination and enthusiasm of the children.
The occasion also witnessed the unveiling of the ‘Orphan Survey Report 2025’, prepared by the Department of Women and Child Development.
The programme began with the rendition of the State Anthem, ‘Bande Utkala Janani’, by children from Adruta Shishu Gruha, Khordha. Participants include winners of district-level children’s festivals held across all 30 districts of Odisha.
A series of competitions in dance, music, painting, debate and quiz will be organised during the festival, giving children opportunities to explore their abilities and express themselves through creative and cultural activities.
The festival, being held from November 3 to 7, has been divided into two segments. The first two days, under ‘MAHAK’, focus on creativity, arts and cultural expression, while the remaining three days will feature ‘UTSAH’, dedicated to sports, enthusiasm and the holistic development of children. Winners of the MAHAK competitions will be felicitated at the concluding ceremony on Wednesday.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development Dr Mrinalini Darswal, Director Monisha Banerjee and other senior officials were present at the inaugural ceremony.
The initiative aims to provide children from care institutions with greater opportunities to showcase their abilities, develop confidence and work towards an empowered and self-reliant future.
