Paradip: The Kalinga Baliyatra is going to be a mix of entertainment, excitement and thrills this year. However, political observers, leaders and officials are getting jittery as the festival nears because the guest list has not been finalized so far.
Reports say expelled BJD leader Damodar Rout will be on the dais on the inaugural event as he is a member of the Mahotsav Committee and an MLA.
This is worrying organisers as they have to decide who would share the stage with Dama. After his expulsion from the party, Dama is at loggerheads with the party and the Chief Minister.
The organisers are all worried as Dama is belligerent these days in criticising all BJD leaders including the CM. They fear if he says something from the podium during the inaugural meet, it will spoil the event.
Invitation cards have not been printed as the guest list has not been finalised. Moreover, there is no confirmation about the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the inauguration. There is confusion about who will grace the event in case the CM cannot make it.
Damodar Rout has been invited to the event three days ahead of the festival and he has given his consent. However, he has refused to write articles for the Baliyatra souvenir. His refusal means that he has distanced himself from all affairs of the festival.
Sources said he will attend both the inaugural and closing ceremony along with his followers. The diplomatic attitude of Dama and his counterparts is making things difficult for the district administration.
Meanwhile, the construction of 200 government stalls for the Pallishree Mela, special stalls of the District Industrial Centre, Meena Bazaar and Opera is going on a war-footing. The committee has received 300 applications for stalls and small vendors have started operations by the roadside.
The committee has received 135 applications from across the state for cultural events and 30 to 35 teams will be selected from that.
Although preparations for the festival are on in full swing, it has to be seen how the committee finalises the guest list.
PNN
