Odisha CM Inaugurates State Level Children’s Festival ‘Utsah’
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy CMs KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, along with Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, inaugurated the state-level children’s festival ‘Utsah’ at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
In a vibrant celebration of youthful energy and talent, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, and the state’s Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, inaugurated the state-level children’s festival ‘Utsah’ at the iconic Kalinga Stadium on Sunday. The event, which features a series of sports competitions and cultural programs, aims to encourage participation and nurture the sporting talent of young minds across the state.
A Grand Start to ‘Utsah’
The inauguration ceremony was marked by a blend of cultural vibrancy and the enthusiastic cheers of hundreds of young participants. Addressing the gathering, CM Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his pride in the state’s commitment to fostering a sporting culture among children. “Utsah is not just a competition; it is a platform to instill the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance in our future generation. I am delighted to see such enthusiasm from children across Odisha,” he said.
Deputy CM KV Singh Deo highlighted the inclusive nature of the festival, emphasizing how it brings together children from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship. “This festival symbolizes unity, determination, and the unwavering spirit of our youth,” he remarked.
Showcasing Young Talent
The festival has drawn over 1,000 participants from various districts of Odisha, competing in a wide array of sports, including athletics, football, badminton, and traditional games like kho-kho and kabaddi. Organized annually, ‘Utsah’ has become a cornerstone event in the state’s calendar, providing a unique platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and build camaraderie.
Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting budding talent. “Odisha has always been at the forefront of sports development, and events like ‘Utsah’ are a testament to our vision of creating opportunities for every child to excel,” he stated.
Interactive Sessions and Workshops
Beyond the competitions, the festival features interactive sessions with renowned athletes, workshops on fitness and nutrition, and exhibitions showcasing the state’s achievements in sports. Pravati Parida, Deputy CM and a strong advocate for children’s development, praised these initiatives for broadening the horizons of young minds. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning, growing, and building confidence,” she said.
Children participating in the event were seen engaging with trainers and experts, eager to pick up new skills and insights. “I am thrilled to be part of this festival. Meeting professional athletes and learning from them is a dream come true,” said Ananya, a young athlete competing in the 100m sprint.
A Beacon of Sports Excellence
Odisha has earned a reputation as a hub for sports excellence, and events like ‘Utsah’ further solidify this legacy. The state has made significant investments in infrastructure, such as the state-of-the-art Kalinga Stadium, and initiatives to promote grassroots participation in sports. Under the leadership of CM Majhi, Odisha continues to lead by example, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent from a young age.
“We want to make Odisha a powerhouse of sports, and events like these are a step in that direction. By engaging children early, we’re not just building athletes; we’re building leaders,” remarked the CM.
Voices of Encouragement
The festival also witnessed heartfelt encouragement from parents and spectators, who applauded the government’s efforts to provide such a platform. “It’s amazing to see our children participate in such a grand event. It motivates them to dream big,” said Suresh Nayak, a parent from Cuttack.
Local sports icons graced the occasion, sharing their journeys and inspiring the young participants. Olympian sprinter Dutee Chand, who attended as a guest speaker, emphasized the importance of hard work and resilience. “Success in sports comes from determination and persistence. I hope these children carry this spirit forward,” she said.
Fostering a Spirit of Unity
The festival not only celebrates competition but also fosters a sense of unity and community among participants. Children from different regions of Odisha shared stories, formed friendships, and cheered for one another, embodying the true spirit of ‘Utsah.’
“This festival is about more than medals. It’s about creating bonds and learning from each other’s experiences,” said Pravati Parida, highlighting the festival’s impact beyond the playing field.
A Vision for the Future
As the festival unfolds over the coming days, it promises to be a celebration of talent, determination, and joy. Events like ‘Utsah’ underscore Odisha’s commitment to empowering its youth and shaping a brighter future through sports and education.
With the combined efforts of the government, educators, and the community, the state-level children’s festival is set to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of participants and spectators alike. The echoes of cheers and laughter at Kalinga Stadium are a testament to the transformative power of such initiatives.
