Puri: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar visited the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Odisha’s Puri district on Sunday, and lauded the state’s rich art and culture.
The CEC, who visited Raghurajpur on the second day of his Odisha tour, was accorded a warm reception by villagers and district administration officials, who escorted him through the village.
Kumar went around the village and closely observed the renowned art forms, including Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf engravings, cow-dung craft, paper masks and other traditional handicrafts.
During his visit, the CEC examined the intricate detailing in Pattachitra artworks depicting themes of Odisha’s art, culture and tradition, along with scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Krishna Leela.
The CEC and his wife interacted with the artisans, seeking insights into the techniques, themes and cultural significance of the artworks, showing keen interest and appreciation for their craftsmanship.
Young artists performed Odisha’s ancient dance form, Goti Pua, before the CEC. Impressed with the performance, the CEC and his wife applauded and encouraged the young dancers.
The district administration of Puri presented Kumar with a large painting of Lord Jagannath, while villagers gifted him several handcrafted artefacts.
The CEC, who visited the Puri Jagannath Temple and Konark Sun Temple after his arrival in Bhubaneswar on Saturday, is slated to hold a meeting with the block level officers (BLOs) in Bhubaneswar on the last day of his tour of the state on Monday.
