Bhubaneswar 12th July: The Heritage Education and Communication Division of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) held a National Level Poster Competition on Celebrating India. The competition, part of INTACH’s initiative for heritage awareness, was aimed to increase awareness about the glorious nation among school children. The students were asked to draw a poster on any local festival, tradition, custom or ritual of their respective state. They were also asked to write a 200 word description on the chosen theme. More than 120 Chapters of Intach participated in the event with nearly 10,000 entries received from all over the nation. Shriyans Panda’s entry of his poster on the Chakulia Panda was adjudged among the National Winners. Shriyans is a Class 7th student at the Saraswati Public School, Bhubaneswar. The prize was awarded at a function at Intach’s head office at Delhi. Dr. Biswajit Mohanty, the State Convener of Intach said that the event was aimed at promoting cultural appreciation, exploration, and education among the school children, who are the torchbearers of our nation’s legacy. Around 20 schools of Odisha had participated in the competition. The participants showcased their creativity by illustrating one intangible cultural heritage of Odisha, such as local festivals, traditions, rituals, social practices, or customs, through their posters and writing. Mohanty said that Intach shall soon be taking up many such projects for fostering cultural awareness and encouraging students to take pride in India’s diverse and rich heritage. Shriyans poster on the Chakulia Panda drew attention of the jury. His depiction of the wandering minstrel, recognised by the marks of white sandalwood on the forehead, palm leaf umbrella and the rice bag was a poignant reminder of the dwindling numbers of Chakulia Pandas. They have been a regular feature in Odisha’s rural landscape singing devotional songs in exchange for rice and money, never seek alms, accepting whatever villagers offer while maintaining their dignified tradition with devotion. Many in Odisha believe that offering rice to Chakulia Pandas is more auspicious than giving to a 100 Brahmins. The Chakulias have been an integral part of coastal Odisha’s cultural fabric, particularly in Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur districts. Their simple yet melodious devotional songs have significantly influenced Odia culture.
