KORAPUT: Parab - the annual cultural extravaganza of tribal-dominated Koraput district - will begin from October 28, in the panchayat headquarters of Kotia under Pottangi block. This year's Patha Utsav - in which a selected stretch of the road is given up to revelry - will be held in Jeypore on November 10.The administration's decision to hold the festival at Kotia assumes significance as both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have been engaged in a five-decade-long political tug-of-war over the ownership of 21 out of 28 villages in the panchayat. The case has been lying before the Supreme Court since 1968.Officials said a festival-cum-competition at the panchayat and block levels would go on till November 14. Then, a mega celebration will be held at the stadium in the district headquarters town from November 16 to 18. "We have decided to celebrate Parab from the panchayat level this year. All efforts will be made to ensure that this year's Parab is remembered for its vibrancy," said collector (Koraput) K Sudarshan Chakravarthy.The Parab festival, which began in the district in 1996, features sports events, tribal dances, songs, music with traditional instruments, archery, mini-marathon and cycling competition.Officials said a five-day Pallishree Mela would be held on the festival ground from November 16; a variety of handicraft will be on display.However, there is some opposition to the stadium being the venue of the final celebration of Parab. Several sportspersons of the town have urged the administration not to use the stadium, as it is being redeveloped by the sports department for Rs 80 lakh. Locals said the celebrations would damage the grass planted there. "The matter is under consideration. If required, the final celebration could be shifted to a new venue in and around Koraput town," said an official.

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