Mayurbhanj, Dec 1: The much-awaited Mayurbhanj Mahotsav 2025 kicked off today with the inauguration of the Carnival Show on the first day of the festival. The event, being celebrated for the 8th consecutive year, will run till December 10, 2025, and aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of the district.

The Carnival Show featured traditional dance and music performances from the district, with a special focus on the Duluki performance, a traditional dance of the region, which enthralled the audience. The event is seen as a significant effort to highlight Mayurbhanj’s art and culture, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talent.

Several dignitaries graced the opening ceremony. They inaugurated the event ceremonially, marking the beginning of this grand celebration.

The Carnival Show was a vibrant display of Mayurbhanj’s local dances, with a procession starting from Jagannath Temple to Chhau Padia. The procession included notable cultural performances such as Aghori Baba, the Shiva Wedding, all of which captured the essence of the region’s folklore and spirituality. The procession drew a large crowd, especially at Bada Danda, where people gathered to witness the magnificent cultural parade.

The Carnival Show also played a crucial role in introducing Mayurbhanj's forgotten arts and culture to the youth and the broader public. The festival aims to preserve and share the region's folk traditions, such as local dances and songs, while also appealing to newer generations. The cultural procession was not only a feast for the eyes but also served as a reminder of the rich artistic heritage of the district.

The festival promises to be an exciting and enriching experience for locals and visitors alike.