Parab-2017, the three-day annual cultural extravaganza showcasing the rich cultural heritage of tribal Koraput began at the stadium ground here today.
The festival was inaugurated by minister of tourism and culture Ashok Chandra Panda.
Braving the cold, people in large numbers including foreign tourists, enjoyed cultural programmes, till late in the evening.
"Over 500 artistes from across the country will perform reflecting the tribal art and culture of their areas. However, the traditional dance and music of undivided Koraput district would be under the spotlight during the three-day celebrations, said collector (Koraput) Anupam Saha.
A five-day Pallishree Mela is also being organized at the festival ground where a variety of handicrafts are on display.
The festival, featuring a number of competitive sports, tribal dance, songs, music and art was launched at the shrine of Goddess Sankuli Devi of B Singh Pur in the district on November 19 and was celebrated in blocks across the district till December 20.
Earlier in the day, the minister laid the foundation stone for a permanent 'Parab' ground near the SLN medical college and hospital. A budget of Rs 4.30 crore has been made for the project which will spread over 25 acres of land.
From next year, Parab will be celebrated at its own ground. While there will be around 60-70 permanent stalls in the Parab ground, around 700 stalls will could be erected during the festival," said Panda.
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