Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Majhi visited his native Raikala village in Odisha’s Keonjhar district on Diwali, reconnecting with his family and community.
He marked the occasion by playing the madal, a traditional instrument, as per tribal rituals. “Following traditional customs, celebrating the festival by playing the madal with everyone was a unique experience for me,” the CM posted on X, while expressing pride for the culture and traditions of the land, which he said were a source of strength and inspiration for him.
Majhi also visited Kali Puja pandals. Members of the Santhal community celebrate Kali Puja, known as Sohrai in local dialect, for three days. “This festival is not merely the festival of lights, but rather a symbol of our rich culture, Odia identity, and our devotion to nature. On this auspicious day, I pray to Maa Kali and Maa Lakshmi that the light of happiness, peace, prosperity, and harmony fills the lives of all people across Odisha. I firmly believe that we all, united in action and by honouring our culture and traditions, will undoubtedly move forward in building a new, developed, and prosperous Odisha,” he said.
It is for the second consecutive year that he was in his village to celebrate the festival since assuming charge as the CM of the state. “Diwali is a occasion when I have always made sure to be in my village,” he added.
