KORAPUT: The Parab-2016 festival, held at the stadium ground here on Friday, showcased tribal art and culture from across the state.
The festival was inaugurated by Koraput MP Jhina Hikaka. One of its most popular draws proved to be the indigenous tribal dances of Koraput, Malkangiri and
Phulbani districts.
Braving cold winds, a huge crowd, including a number of foreign tourists watched the cultural shows late into the night.
"The festival provides an opportunity for visitors to peep into tribal culture. It is no less in importance than any national level festival," said
Apoorva Mandal, a tourist from West Bengal.
A coffee table book highlighting the region, titled 'Koraput Odyssey' was released at the festival.
"This year, more emphasis has been given to tribal dance and music of Koraput," said Koraput collector
Jaya Kumar V.
A five-day Pallishree Mela, where handicraft items will be sold, was also inaugurated.