Bhubaneswar, April 15: Cultures of Odisha was the focus at Shrestha Odiani, the annual event held exclusively for women, at Ekamra Haat on Tuesday. 

Around 70 women fought for the title in the show that is in its 10th edition. 

The competition that began on Utkal Divas analysed the competency of the participants in 12 traditional segments. On the concluding day, contestants decked themselves up in traditional attires and were judged on that. Donning handloom saris, the women applied alata, wore nose pins, earrings, anklets and many more. 

The participants were also judged on their conch blowing and hulahuli (the auspicious sound made during holy rituals) skills. Games such as jhoti, making intricate designs on floor with rice paste, and making of pithas or country cakes were also conducted.

One of the most difficult contests was purana-abriti where they recited mythological texts in Odia. Ancient texts such as Ramayana and Mahabharata and popular works of ancient Odia litterateurs were recited. “Now we hardly put focus on reading mythological books. Before participating in the contest, I had to read a lot of those books to widen my knowledge on mythology. Such contests help the younger generations become aware of their customary cultures,” said 35-year-old homemaker Madhuvidya  Nanda.

Organised by Sambhabana, an Odia cultural organisation, the contest aims at reviving the elements of Odia culture that is gradually fading away. 

“The format of the game is that participants can choose their preferred segments. This year most of the women took part in all the games and the  turnout for each contest was  higher,” said D.P. Parija, head of the cultural organisation.
To revive the dying ritual of kandana, a specific way of crying by the bride’s family members during their daughter’s farewell, a contest on the same was also held. 

The final results will be declared on April 28 to commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary Odia leader Madhusudan Das.