Bhubaneswar, January 12: Odisha Governor Kambhampati Haribabu on Monday attended the rural-themed GVL Sankranti celebrations at Andhra University College of Engineering (AUCE), where he was welcomed by traditional drum beats performed by local folk artists. The event showcased various rural art forms, and the Governor also participated in the symbolic feeding of a bull.

In his address, Haribabu lauded GVL Narasimha Rao for organizing the ‘Sankranti Sambaralu,’ an initiative aimed at introducing the city's residents to rural traditions, which many rarely experience. He spoke about the significance of the four-day Sankranti festival, covering key days like Bhogi, Sankranti, Kanuma, and Mukkanuma. He emphasized the festival’s role in celebrating a successful harvest, honoring farmers, fostering community ties, and promoting cattle worship, which symbolizes harmony with nature.

GVL Narasimha Rao shared that this was the second year he had organized the event and introduced the theme of "Atma Nirbhar" Sankranti for 2023, promoting self-sufficiency and the ‘Swadeshi’ movement. He urged attendees to take advantage of government schemes such as the "Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana" to reduce electricity bills and contribute to the national economy.