Bhawanipatna (Odisha), April 21, 2025: Observing World Art Day, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest producer of aluminium, celebrated the rich artistic legacy of Odisha by organizing a vibrant cultural event at Eklavya Model Residential School in Thuamul Rampur, one of the remotest and tribal-dominated regions of Kalahandi district. The event, conceptualized and executed by Vedanta’s Sijimali Bauxite team, aimed to encourage creativity among students and revive traditional tribal art forms intrinsic to the region’s cultural identity.
The highlight of the celebration was an engaging hands-on workshop on Saura art, one of Odisha’s most ancient and symbolic tribal art forms. Conducted by the faculty members of Kalahandi College of Art and Research, the workshop introduced students to the origins, motifs, and techniques that define this distinctive art style. Over 120 students participated enthusiastically, transforming the venue into a lively space filled with color, imagination, and cultural expression.
Through the workshop, students delved into the deep connection between art, nature, and tribal life, exploring how the Saura community uses art not merely for decoration, but as a sacred medium to depict stories, rituals, and their symbiotic relationship with the environment. The young artists created vibrant depictions of folklore, village scenes, and daily life, reflecting both their creative flair and a newfound appreciation for Odisha’s indigenous culture.
Appreciating the initiative, Satya Prakash Satya, Headmaster of Eklavya Model Residential School, remarked, “We are deeply grateful to Vedanta Aluminium for organizing such a meaningful event that connects our students to their cultural roots. The Saura art workshop not only enriched their artistic skills but also instilled in them a sense of pride and understanding of Odisha’s tribal heritage. Initiatives like these play a crucial role in nurturing creativity while preserving traditions that define our identity.”
Speaking about the company’s vision for cultural preservation, Mr. Nitin Tiwari, Chief Operating Officer (CEO), Vedanta Bauxite Mines, said, “Our commitment to community development extends beyond industrial growth—it includes protecting and promoting the cultural and artistic heritage of the regions we serve. Through initiatives like this, we aim to inspire the younger generation to take pride in their roots while exploring their creative potential. Art is a powerful bridge between tradition and modernity, and empowering youth through cultural engagement contributes to a stronger, more self-aware community.”
Mr. Tiwari further emphasized Vedanta’s continued collaboration with local stakeholders to advance holistic development in Odisha. “We will continue to work closely with local communities to foster inclusive growth through initiatives spanning education, healthcare, livelihood creation, infrastructure, sports, and cultural preservation,” he added.
Notably, Vedanta Aluminium’s social impact programmes have touched the lives of over 1.5 lakh people across 67 villages in Kalahandi district and more than 5 lakh people across Odisha, driving sustainable change through partnerships rooted in care, empowerment, and shared progress. Through its efforts, Vedanta continues to champion a vision of development that honors both people and their cultural heritage.
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