State-Level Children’s Festival ‘Mahak’ Begins at Kalinga Stadium

Bhubaneswar: A five-day state-level children’s festival, Mahak, was inaugurated today at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, celebrating creativity, confidence and the vibrant spirit of Odisha’s children. The festival is being jointly organised by the Departments of Women and Child Development, Mission Shakti and the Odisha State Child Protection Society.

The event has brought together over 500 children from across the State, who will participate in a range of competitions including solo singing, group dance, debate, painting and quiz. Mahak aims to provide a joyful and encouraging platform where children can showcase their talents and express themselves freely. The festival reflects the State’s belief that every child deserves a stage to shine.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Minister of Law, Works and Excise Prithiviraj Harichandan, Principal Secretary WCD Shubha Sarma, Director ICDS Monisha Banerjee, and Additional Secretary WCD Krutibas Rout graced the inaugural ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries described children as the promise of Odisha’s brighter future, and encouraged them to dream big and use their abilities as instruments of positive change in society.

On this occasion, a Coffee Table Book on Mission Vatsalya was unveiled, highlighting Odisha’s initiatives and achievements in strengthening child protection and care. A video showcasing the journeys and success stories of Mission Vatsalya beneficiaries was also screened.