Bhubaneswar, January 21: Considered as the oldest and most colourful festival, the annual tribal fair in Bhubaneswar popularly called as the ‘Adivasi mela’ is all set to have a grand entry on the Republic Day. This tribal exhibition and festival is organized every year situated in the heart of the capital city, Bhubaneswar. Every year the event is held at Adivasi Ground at Unit-1 is now shifted to be organised at the Idco Exhibition Ground at Unit-3.
This festival of tribal people comprise of all 62 tribes people including 13 PTGs, come over to the exhibition ground & spread out their ethnic variety. This ancient festival showcases the art, artifacts, culture, tradition, and music of the tribal people of Orissa. The Adivasi exhibition is the only one of its kind in the country. The stalls at the Adivasi mela displays and sells various handicrafts items made by the tribal people. Several cultural, musical and dance programs are conducted as a part of the fair.
The festivals of the tribal constitute an integral part of their social life and relate to their strong beliefs of community togetherness. Their traditions can best be captured at these fairs and festivals. This is an added advantage to the tourism of the state as the tourists get an opportunity to witness the beauty and cultural roots of the community. Tribal community attractions are not that famous among the people and thus these festivals bring out the hidden spark and talent of the tribals.