CM Mohan Majhi Dedicates Shabari Cultural Bhawan to Odisha’s Tribal Communities

Bhubaneswar, July 3 : In a move aimed at empowering Odisha’s tribal population and preserving their rich cultural heritage, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday dedicated the Shabari Cultural Bhawan in Bhubaneswar to the tribal communities of Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri districts.

The upgraded facility, envisioned as more than just a short-stay shelter, has been granted ₹2 crore by the state government to enhance its amenities and expand its scope.

“This Bhawan is not just a shelter; it is a platform for empowering tribal youth and fostering leadership,” said Chief Minister Majhi. The Shabari Bhawan will serve as a hub for education, employment, and cultural engagement, along with providing temporary accommodation for tribal visitors to the capital.

A Hub of Tribal Expression and Empowerment

The Chief Minister emphasized that the facility would host a range of activities, including training camps, cultural conferences, art exhibitions, and research programs, thereby fostering cultural vibrancy among Odisha’s tribal communities.

“Tribal culture is not merely about music and dance—it’s a way of life and the soul of the community,” Majhi stated, highlighting the need for its active preservation. He expressed confidence that the Shabari Cultural Bhawan would become a key institution for nurturing and showcasing tribal identity and pride.

Strengthening Cultural and Linguistic Legacy

Majhi also announced the establishment of two new institutions in Bhubaneswar: a Tribal Culture and Heritage Bhawan and a Tribal Language Institute, aimed at reinforcing the cultural and linguistic traditions of Odisha’s indigenous communities.

Reiterating his government’s long-term vision, the Chief Minister said, “We aim to build a prosperous Odisha by 2036 through holistic development and empowerment of tribal communities.” He envisioned the Shabari Bhawan as a symbol of Odisha’s identity and a source of inspiration for future generations.

Support for South Odisha’s Development

At the same event, Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, who also serves as President of the Shabari Cultural Council, said tribal culture gives Odisha its distinct identity and remains a source of pride for the state. Gond announced that the government has constituted a task force for the South Odisha Development Council and sanctioned ₹200 crore for the development of the undivided Koraput district.

The dedication of the Shabari Cultural Bhawan represents a milestone in the state’s efforts to uplift tribal communities, ensuring that their contributions to Odisha’s history, culture, and future are celebrated and preserved.