Berhampur: Five-day long Gopalpur Belabhumi Mahotsav (Beach Festival)-2019 will kick off at the port town on December 24, perhaps in a different venue this time, informed Mahotsav Committee president and local MLA Pradeep Panigrahi following a preparatory meeting on Tuesday. Interestingly for this first time ever, the event will showcase activities and performances even during day time.
GBF, the most sought-after fest in South Odisha, will be inaugurated by Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik. Panigrahi also unveiled the new official logo for the 2019 Gopalpur Beach festival, which will continue till December 28.
During the extravaganza, people will witness a feast of hit songs and dances, including folk, classical as well as modern from artistes not only in India, but from Russia as well.
If sources are anything to go by, this year’s special star attraction includes singers Sonu Nigam and Shaan. Comedian-actor and mimicry artiste Sanket Bhosale has also been roped in for a performance.
This apart, like every year, Palishree Mela is being organized by the government on the occasion. Wooden products, Ayurvedic products, terracotta and textile items from across the country will be an added attraction.
“CM Naveen will inaugurate the event and other senior ministers have also been invited to attend and make the event a grand success. We have sought the cooperation from all administrative heads apart from Army's active participation. This year, Gopalpur Belabhumi Mahotsav will be held in a different location with a view to accommodate as many as 2 lakh visitors,” said Pradeep Panigrahi, who presided over the meeting held in presence of Ganjam Collector and Berhampur SP.
With lakhs of visitors expected to congregate in the port town, it will be a tough task for administration and police department to manage the crowd and keep them firmly under control.
Collector Vijay Amruta Kulange said, "Cultural programme and star nights will be in the evening. For the first time, daily activities will continue round-the-clock as the event will also showcase talents of local artistes during the day time. The move has been initiated to highlight local talent and literature."
"We are sure we will be able to arrange a full-proof arrangement. Security will be heightened in the area in view of VIP movement, gathering of artistes and general public. Coming to beach security, we have requested to spare a few more lifeguards to tackle any untoward incident," Berhampur SP Pinak Mishra said.