Bhubaneswar: The historic Khandagiri Mela has a special attraction this year.

Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday inaugurated the first Khandagiri-Udaygiri Mahotsav at the interpretation centre near the twin hills. The four-day extravaganza will witness cultural programmes, food festivals, handicrafts exhibition, sand art and other activities.

Ganjam's Ranapa Dance's Jodi Shanka, Odissi recitals by Odisha Dance Academy and singer Ananya Sritam Nanda were the attractions on the inaugural day. "We aim to make the event an annual affair. From next year, we will create a special package to attract tourists," said tourism minister Ashok Panda.

The Khandagiri Mela that began on Wednesday has also picked up. The fair attracts thousands from the city, its outskirts and other districts and has been taking place near the twin hills since time immemorial. Legend has it that the demon Sambhasur was suffering from an unknown skin disease and he prayed to the Sun god to aid his recovery. The Sun god asked him to bathe in the Chandrabhaga on Magha Saptami and then visit Khandagiri, covering the entire distance on foot. It is believed that a visit to Khandagiri during the Magha Mela can cure a person of diseases.

Around 300 kiosks selling items such as wooden utensils, bamboo, stone carvings and various household items have come up at the fair. Joyrides and eateries have also found place at the venue. Thirteen jatra troupes will stage their productions at the fair.

Sneha Patnaik, a visitor to the fair, said: "I come here every year with my friends and relatives. From gorging on local food to buying cheap jewellery, there are a lot of things to do. I came on the first day itself to avoid crowds in later days days."

Police have taken several steps to ensure law and order. A police control room has been set up at Khandagiri Square with CCTV cameras at 16 places. Six platoons of police and women police personnel are looking after security.