Kotpad, May 20: A district-level art and culture meeting was organized by Shabar Shrikhetra Kala Sanskruti, Kotpad Block, at the Kotpad Dussehra Ground in a devotional and cultural atmosphere.
Mahesh Kashyap attended the event as the chief guest, Ganesh Acharya as the chief speaker, and Rupu Bhatra as the guest of honor. MP representative Chandrasekhar Das, District Artists’ Association President Aditya Sahu, Rameshwar Jena, Pradeep Rath, Suren Mohanty, along with many party workers and artists, were present at the program.
Thousands of artists from Kotpad and nearby remote areas participated, creating a vibrant cultural environment throughout the venue. The program began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp before the idol of Lord Jagannath. Later, a city procession accompanied by Ram Naam Sankirtan was organized, spreading a spiritual atmosphere across the town.
The stage proceedings were conducted by Gaur Dewan. District Artists’ Association President Aditya Sahu raised demands before the MLA regarding artists’ allowances, establishment of Bhagabat Tungi centers, and pension benefits for eligible artists. MLA Rupu Bhatra assured that these issues would be raised in the Assembly in the coming days and that support would be extended to the artists.
In his speech, MP Mahesh Kashyap emphasized the need for unity among artists and cultural awareness. He also stated that cooperation from neighboring Chhattisgarh would continue and extended his best wishes to all artists.
At the end of the event, shawls and certificates of honor were presented to the participating artists.