Koraput: The mega celebration of famous annual cultural extravaganza ‘Parab’ began in Kotia — the disputed panchayat under Pottangi block of of Koraput District –November 16, Friday.
The decision to launch the festival in Kotia which neighbouring Andhra Pradesh claims was taken to instil confidence among the people and bring development to the region, District Collector K Sudarshan Chakravarthy said. This was the first time in the history of 22-year-old festival, Parab was being celebrated at the panchayat level, the collector said.
The festival is closely connected to tribal life in Koraput and features sports events, tribal dances, songs, music with traditional instruments, archery, mini-marathon and cycling competition. Similarly, a five-day Pallishree Mela was conducted on the festival ground where a variety of handicrafts was on display.
The district administration’s decision to hold the festival at Kotia assumes significance as both Odisha and Andhra have been engaged in a five-decade-long political tug-of-war over the ownership of 21 out of 28 villages in the panchayat. The case has been lying before the Supreme Court since 1968.
On the other hand, the panchayat has been reaping the benefits of the row between the two governments. It has seen several development projects being undertaken by the BJD dispensation in response to intrusion by Andhra Pradesh earlier this year.
The Odisha government has announced a hospital and road projects and repair of long defunct power lines. The administration has also announced various projects like roads and schools worth Rs 4.76cr.
“A special package of Rs 150cr has been finalized for the overall development of Kotia. Land has been identified for the construction of a police station, a hospital and a residential school at Kotia,’’ the collector said.
The tussle over Kotia, which began in 1956, escalated in January this year after Andhra officials tried to lure the locals by distributing Rs 1,000 as pension to 65 people and giving away blankets, mosquito nets and medicines.
The Collector of Vizianagaram also attended a ‘Janmabhoomi’ programme at Kotia on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh Government without informing his Koraput counterpart.
Amidst these developments, holding Parab at Kotia seems to have pleased the residents. “We are happy that Parab was launched from here. We are hopeful that the event will lead to rapid development of the area,” they said.
Ministers Ramesh Chandra Majhi and Chandra Sarathi Behera, Koraput MP Jhina Hikaka; Jeypore MLA Tara Prasad Mahinipati; Pottangi MLA Prafulla Pangi; and Koraput MLA Krushna Sagaria were present at the festival launch.
“Since its debut, Parab has become an integral part of tribal life in the district. It only acts as a catalyst in protecting and promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage, it provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent,” said MLA Bahinipati.
PNN