Govt announces Rs 1.08cr aid for Sital Sasthi

Bhubaneswar: The state govt has sanctioned financial assistance of Rs 1.08 crore for the famous Sital Sasthi festival in Sambalpur district this year.The assistance will be provided through the Odia Language, Literature and Culture department following the directions of chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Altogether 21 Sital Sasthi festival committees across the district will receive financial support for organising the annual cultural and religious event.Announcing the decision on Saturday, culture minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the state govt remains committed to preserving and promoting Odisha’s rich cultural traditions and heritage. “Sital Sasthi is a vibrant celebration of Odisha’s traditions, cultural heritage and spiritual ethos.

The financial assistance will help organisers celebrate the festival with greater grandeur and enthusiasm,” he said.The minister added that the govt’s support would further strengthen Odisha’s distinct cultural identity and help showcase its unique traditions at both national and international levels.Sital Sasthi, one of western Odisha’s most celebrated festivals, marks the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.