Bhawanipatna: The silver jubilee celebrations of Jagannath Uchcha Vidyapitha, Rupra under Narla block were inaugurated amid much fanfare and grandeur on Sunday.
The event, presided over by Alumni Association president Rabindra Sahu, was graced by Narla MLA Manorama Mohanty as the chief guest, who formally inaugurated the programme. Among the dignitaries on the dais were Narla BDO Bipin Bihari Deep as special guest, Narla BEO Tapimani Jani as chief speaker, and guests of honour including Narla block chairman Durgaprasad Mohanty, Zilla Parishad member Namrata Sahu, and Rupra Sarpanch Dali Behera.
In his welcome address and report presentation, headmaster Mrutyunjaya Behera highlighted the institution’s journey over the past 36 years. A commemorative souvenir titled ‘Rupajharan’ was released on the occasion. The school felicitated its land donors, financial contributors, those who provided labour, and house donors for their invaluable support in its establishment and growth.
The programme was skilfully anchored by former student Somyshree Behera, while Sasmita Sahu proposed the vote of thanks.
The celebrations commenced with an impressive Mashal Jatra that started from the Jagannath temple, Dwarsani, Patkhanda, and Shiva temple, culminating at the venue stage.
The second session saw School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond as chief guest, Satyanarayan Mundchhina as chief speaker, and Narla MLA Manorama Mohanty as special guest. Guests of honour included Subarnapur Collector Dr Nruparaj Sahu, District Education Officer Radhakanta Chhatri, Vaidyaraj Pabitra Sabar, senior Kalahandi leaders Artatrana Mohapatra and Jugal Podh, besides headmaster Mrutyunjaya Behera.
During this session, the school’s teaching and non-teaching staff were honoured for their dedicated service.
Former student and internationally acclaimed mountaineer Jogabyasa Bhoi delivered the welcome speech, while the stage was efficiently managed by Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar-winning writer Dileswar Rana.
The entire programme received tremendous support and cooperation from Alumni Association president Rabindra Sahu, secretary Tejraj Sahu, and all executive members of the association.
The day-long celebrations concluded on a vibrant note with a colourful cultural programme presented by students and alumni, leaving the audience spellbound.
