Baripada: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Friday attended the cultural gathering of the National Bandana Festival–2026, organised at Aguada in Mayurbhanj district as the chief guest. On the occasion, he praised the Kudumi community for its rich ancient traditions, hard work, agricultural heritage and deep-rooted love for nature.
Extending his warm greetings to the members of the Kudumi community on the occasion of Bandana Parab, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring their social, economic, educational and cultural development as part of Odisha’s inclusive development agenda.
Addressing the gathering, Majhi described Bandana as much more than a traditional festival. He said it represents a living expression of the community’s close relationship with nature, mother earth, cattle and human values. “Bandana is not merely a festival; it is a living poem of nature, soil, cattle and human relationships,” he said, adding that worshipping nature, celebrating agricultural traditions and expressing gratitude towards the soil form the very soul of the community’s culture.
The Chief Minister described the Kudumi people as children of the soil, highlighting their contribution to agriculture and rural life. He said their ability to transform the land through hard work and dedication offers valuable lessons for society. Recalling his personal connection with Mayurbhanj, Majhi said the district was like his second home.
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He expressed happiness at returning to the region and interacting with its people. Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj regions, he said unity and mutual respect have always been important features of tribal and traditional society.
Sharing memories of his childhood, the Chief Minister recalled growing up alongside Kudumi families in his village. He fondly remembered visiting Dhenguan and enjoying traditional pithas (local rice-based dumplings). He also acknowledged the significant contribution of members of the Kudumi community to his political journey.
Speaking about the historical background and social contributions of the Kudumi community, Majhi described it as an ancient and hard-working agricultural community spread across several Indian states, including Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Describing the community as self-respecting, loyal and patriotic, the Chief Minister said its members have traditionally believed in achieving success through hard work and perseverance.
Apart from agriculture, they have also established their presence in business and government services.
