Mumbai, YNN: The Nuakhai Bhetghat 2024 programme, organised by Paschim Odisha Parivar, Mumbai, was held at the Swatyantryaveer Savarkar Auditorium in Dadar, Mumbai. The event saw the participation of notable personalities including ED LIC Ratnakar Patnaik, ED RBI Charulata Kar, Padmashri Mitrabhanu Gauntia, Dr. Sapan Mishra, and Champak Tripathi, who chanted Goddess Mantras and worshipped Maa Samlei.
The programme began with a two-minute silence in memory of the late Padmashri Sadhu Meher, a mentor member and legendary actor-director. Chairman Shrikant Chatterjee, a retired Commissioner of Revenue, welcomed the guests and the audience.
Padmashri Mitrabhanu Gauntia was honoured with the third Paschim Odisha Parivar Mumbai Gourav Samman-2024. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Gauntia expressed gratitude to the organisation and shared insights about the creation of the iconic “Rangabati” song.
Dr. Sapan Mishra was also recognised for his contributions to the Sambalpuri language and culture. He emphasised the significance of Nuakhai as a harvest festival that holds importance for everyone, not just farmers.
Ratnakar Patnaik, originally from Koraput and currently working in the Sambalpur LIC Division, reminisced about his connection with Western Odisha. He compared the song “Rangabati” to a popular folk song from Koraput, “Pani Marigala Jhainre Dada,” and praised the Juhar Foundation for their educational initiatives and Covid hospital setups.
Charulata Kar, a daughter-in-law of Sambalpur, spoke about her devotion to Maa Samlei and her love for Sambalpuri handicrafts and culture. The event featured captivating Sambalpuri music and dance performances by the “Rang Pharua” group, led by Guru Durga Das and Guru Asim Pradhan, which enthralled the audience.
Approximately 500 members attended the event, enjoying the programme and authentic Odia cuisine. A Sambalpuri fashion show showcased traditional handloom attire, and the evening concluded with guests and members dancing to melodious Sambalpuri music. The programme was coordinated by Kavita Sahani.
