Odisha boy Shriyans Panda, a Class VII student of Saraswati Public School, Bhubaneswar, has made the state proud by winning a prestigious national award for his artistic portrayal of the traditional Chakulia Panda in a poster competition. The competition was organised at the national level by the Heritage Education and Communication Division (HECD) of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) as part of its initiative Celebrating India. This initiative is aimed at promoting heritage awareness and increasing knowledge about India’s rich cultural traditions among school children.

This year’s contest saw participation from around 120 INTACH chapters across India, attracting nearly 10,000 entries from schools nationwide. From Odisha alone, 20 schools participated, showcasing the state’s vibrant heritage through creative artwork and written descriptions. The theme of the competition encouraged students to design a poster based on any local festival, tradition, custom, or ritual from their respective states. Participants were also required to submit a 200-word write-up explaining their chosen theme.

Shriyans Panda’s poster beautifully depicted the Chakulia Panda, a wandering minstrel and religious mendicant who has been an integral part of Odisha’s coastal cultural fabric, especially in the Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts. Traditionally recognised by their white sandalwood marks on the forehead, palm leaf umbrellas, and rice bags, the Chakulia Pandas visit homes singing devotional songs and narrating mythological tales in exchange for rice and alms. His artwork stood out for its poignant portrayal of this fast-disappearing tradition in Odisha, highlighting the need to preserve such unique cultural practices. The national jury appreciated Shriyans’ deep understanding of his subject and his ability to present it visually with sensitivity and artistic skill. This recognition not only brings laurels to Saraswati Public School but also shines a light on Odisha’s cultural heritage, inspiring younger generations to take pride in their roots and traditions.