Sudam Babu | State Bureau Chief Odisha

Boudh, Odisha, October 16: The ongoing nine-day Durga Puja celebrations at Khuntabandh Bus Stand in Boudh block witnessed an engaging blend of devotion and traditional theatre on the third evening, as the mythological play ‘Sita Thaba’ (Finding Sita) drew large crowds and earned widespread appreciation.

The day began with a Ramayana recitation focusing on Lord Rama’s exile to the forest, known as Ram Banabasa. In the evening, the festivities shifted to a dramatic portrayal of events from the epic, taking spectators through Hanuman’s mission to locate Mother Sita in Lanka.

The performance brought several memorable episodes from the Ramayana to the stage, including Hanuman’s arrival in Lanka, the slaying of Akshaya Kumar and Jambumali, his visit to Ashoka Vatika and the delivery of Lord Rama’s ring to Sita as a sign of hope and recognition. The performers’ expressions, dialogue delivery and stage presentation helped bring the legendary story to life.

Manoj Mohanty played Ravana, while Manas Sahu portrayed Sita and Surendra Danta took on the role of Hanuman. Buddharam Rana appeared as Akshaya Kumar, Sachchidananda Khamari as Indrajit, Sanjeev Barik as the chief minister, Manoj Barik as Jambumali and Shantanu Badamali as the messenger. Elina, Sona and Barsha added colour to the production through their performances as royal dancers.

The stage arrangements were handled by Kusha Sethi, with musical assistance from Sushant Mahar, Soumitri Mallik and Sudhir Badachata.

Boudh Municipality Chairperson Mrutyunjay Mishra attended the programme as chief guest and formally inaugurated the evening’s cultural event. Among the other attendees were former Mundapada Panchayat Sarpanch Bidyadhar Swain, Telibandh PACS President Tripur Mahakud, social worker Swadhin Kumar Pradhan, Khuntabandh PACS President Raj Kishore Dehury and social worker Bikram Mahanandia.

The guests praised the organisers for creating a platform that keeps traditional performances and cultural heritage alive during the festive season.

Former Sarpanch Jogeshwar Mahakul welcomed the dignitaries, introduced the guests and coordinated the proceedings on stage.

Mohanty’s convincing performance as Ravana emerged as one of the evening’s highlights. His portrayal held the attention of the audience, with spectators remaining engrossed in the drama until late into the night. Hundreds of residents from Khuntabandh and nearby villages gathered at the venue to enjoy the cultural presentation.

The Durga Puja festivities are being organised through the collective participation of Khuntabandh villagers and the Kalinga Yuva Parishad. The celebration reflects the community’s commitment to combining religious observances with cultural programmes that bring people together and pass traditional stories on to future generations.