Bhubaneswar: The state-level Children’s Festival ‘MAHAK-2026’ opened on Tuesday at Practice Ground of Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar amid an atmosphere of excitement and celebration.
Organised by the Odisha State Child Protection Society under the Department of Women and Child Development, the five-day event brings together children from Child Care Institutions across Odisha to display their talents, creativity and artistic skills.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida attended as Chief Guest and inaugurated the festival by releasing balloons.
Speaking to the children and gathering, she praised their talent, confidence and energy, urging them to aim for a bright future. She stressed that every child in care and protection must receive dignity, equal opportunities and guidance, encouraging them to dream without limits and pursue their goals with confidence. She assured them of the state government’s continued support in creating conditions for them to realise their aspirations, summing up her message as: “Dream big and explore new horizons; the government stands with you.”
Minister for Law, Works and Excise Prithviraj Harichandan, present as Guest of Honour, complimented the children’s determination, enthusiasm and spirit.
The Department also released the ‘Orphan Survey Report 2025’ during the ceremony.
The programme began with children from Adruta Shishu Gruha, Khordha, rendering the State Anthem ‘Bande Utkala Janani’. Participants include winners from district-level festivals held across all 30 districts of the state. Over the course of the festival, competitions in dance, music, painting, debate and quiz will give the children platforms to express themselves, hone their abilities and gain confidence.
Running from November 3-7, the event is divided into two parts. The first two days, branded ‘MAHAK’, centre on creativity, arts and cultural expression, while the following three days, called ‘UTSAH’, focus on sports, enthusiasm and overall talent development. Winners of the MAHAK competitions will be honoured at the concluding ceremony scheduled for Wednesday.
