Koraput, Dec 23: The five-day National-Level Tribal Folk Festival Koraput Parab 2025 concluded on a grand note, drawing a record crowd of over five lakh visitors despite severe cold conditions. The festival witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with several cabinet ministers, adding to its significance.

Each evening of the festival offered vibrant cultural performances featuring local artists as well as renowned performers from across Odisha and other states. The valedictory evening witnessed a massive turnout, with Bollywood singers Sachet and Parampara emerging as the star attraction.

As temperatures dropped, enthusiasm among attendees remained high, with the Parab ground packed beyond capacity. Sachet and Parampara began their performance with devotional renditions dedicated to Lord Jagannath and concluded with bhajans of Lord Ram. Their set also included popular Bollywood numbers and the iconic Odia song “Rangabati,” which had the audience dancing in unison. The house-full cultural programme continued till midnight.

Managing the unprecedented crowd posed a major challenge for the police administration. In several instances, spectators crossed barricades and climbed nearby hills overlooking the Parab ground to get a view of the performances.

Apart from cultural celebrations, Koraput Parab 2025 set a new benchmark in business activity. According to the district administration, the festival recorded a turnover exceeding ₹20 crore. The Pallishree Mela and stalls set up by traders from within and outside the state reported brisk business, with Koraput coffee and millet-based products emerging as key attractions.

During the closing ceremony, winners of various departmental competitions were felicitated. Koraput Municipality was declared the Best Municipality, while Koraput and Jeypore blocks were adjudged Best Blocks. The festival formally concluded with the District Collector extinguishing the ceremonial torch and lowering the festival flag.