Bhabanipatana: Spanish journalist, researcher and blogger Lluis Llafranc Sunday concluded his visit to Kalahandi district to study its folk art, culture and traditions.
Llafranc toured various folk-dance venues, cultural sites, temples and natural attractions and gathered information about the region’s traditional art and heritage.
On the first day of his visit Friday, Llafranc visited Chhoriagada village in Junagada block, known for its folk art, where he watched a performance of the traditional Ghumura dance.
He also interacted with Ghumura artistes and discussed the history, traditions and various aspects of the dance form.
He later visited Khairapadar village in Dharmagada block, known for its traditional woodcraft.
He viewed various wooden sculptures and handicrafts, and spoke with artisans about traditional woodworking techniques, their livelihoods and the different aspects of the craft.
In the afternoon, Llafranc visited the Maa Jogamaya shrine at Gurjimunda in Kesinga block.
He also visited the nearby Devagumpha, a natural cave, where he saw a large Shiva lingam and learned about the historical and natural features of Biripuda hill and the cave.
He later offered prayers at the shrines of Goddess Jogamaya and Lord Pataleswar and toured a medicinal plant garden near the temple.
