Bhubaneswar, Jan 26: Bhubaneswar’s Smart City will come alive with the sights and sounds of rural Odisha as the Tribal Fair 2026 begins at Unit-1 Adibasi ground today. The event, running until 5th February, has been designed to recreate the traditional village environment within the city, complete with mud walls, bamboo supports, cow-dung plastered floors, and thatched roofs.

The fair will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and will remain open daily from 2:30 PM to 9:00 PM. A total of 94 stalls have been set up, including 15 dedicated to tribal handicrafts, showcasing traditional creations such as Baripada mats, Nabarangpur terracotta, and Rayagada bamboo crafts. Visitors can purchase authentic tribal art while experiencing a rural ambiance.

Cultural programs will take place each evening on the main stage. Tribals from across Odisha will perform traditional dance, music, devotional songs, and instrumental pieces, along with dramas that reflect their everyday lives and folklore.

A special feature of this year’s fair is the display of 10 tribal houses from various districts, including the Gadba house from Koraput, the Juang house from Keonjhar, and the Bhunjia house from Sunabeda. These homes, constructed in the days leading up to the fair, showcase diverse architectural styles and local customs. Many houses display family deities, agricultural tools, storage units for rice, wells, or poultry coops, giving visitors a glimpse into the daily life of Odisha’s tribal communities.

The fair promises a unique opportunity for city residents to immerse themselves in tribal culture, enjoy performances, and shop for handcrafted art—all in one vibrant setting.