Berhampur: The five-day Gopalpur Belabhumi Mahotsav (GBF) (Beach Festival)-2019 will have two highlights this year. One, it will showcase activities and performances even during the day. Two, unconfirmed sources say that Bollywood singers Sonu Nigam and Shaan, besides comedian-actor and mimicry artiste Sanket Bhosale will performa at the event.
It will be held at the port town from December 24-28. Mahotsav Committee president and local MLA Pradeep Panigrahi said the venue might be different from the previous years. Panigrahi also unveiled the new official logo for the festival.
The people of Odisha and South Odisha in particular look forward to GBF every year. Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik will inaugurate it. Panigrahi also unveiled the new official logo for the 2019 Gopalpur Beach festival, which will continue till December 28.
People will be treated to hit songs and dances, both folk and classical during the extravaganza. Artistes from Russia will also perform during the festival.
Palishree Mela is also being organised by the government on the occasion. It will have Ayurvedic products, terracotta, wooden and textile items from across the country.
“CM Naveen will inaugurate the event and other senior ministers have also been invited to attend and make the event a grand success. We have sought the cooperation of all administrative heads apart from Army’s active participation. This year, Gopalpur Belabhumi Mahotsav will be held in a different location with a view to accommodate as many as 2 lakh visitors,” said Pradeep Panigrahi, who presided over the meeting held in presence of Ganjam Collector and Berhampur SP.
According to the Collector, Vijay Amruta Kulange, cultural programmes and star nights will take place in the evening. For the first time, daily activities will continue round-the-clock. The move has been initiated to highlight local talent and literature.
Stating that no effort will be spared where security is concerned, Berhampur SP Pinak Mishra said that they have requested for more lifeguards to tackle any untoward incident as far as beach security is concerned.
