Festive Harmony: UAIL’s Durga Puja 2026 Unites Thousands in Vibrant Celebration
Desk,Odishabarta
Tikiri, October 22, 2026: Utkal Alumina International Limited (UAIL), a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited, Aditya Birla Group, celebrated Durga Puja 2026 with deep devotion, enthusiasm, and cultural fervor at its Durga Puja Ground near Doraguda. The five-day festivities witnessed enthusiastic participation from employees, business partners, and residents of villages surrounding the refinery and mines, reflecting a true spirit of unity, tradition, and community togetherness.
The celebrations commenced on October 16 with Mahapanchami. The traditional Bilwadivas ritual was observed at the Maa Durga Mandap, followed by an engaging “Boogie Woogie” dance program that provided a vibrant platform for local talent. Hundreds of devotees gathered on opening day to seek the blessings of Maa Durga and enjoy the cultural performances.
On Mahasasthi, devotees participated in sacred religious observances before enjoying a musical evening featuring renowned Ollywood singers Ms. Sangeeta Padhi and Mr. Ashutosh Mohanty. Their melodious performances captivated the audience and heightened the festive atmosphere.
The festivities continued through Mahasaptami and Maha Ashtami with traditional rituals and pujas. The evenings came alive with vibrant Sambalpuri music and dance performances, drawing enthusiastic participation from local communities and visitors alike.
On Mahanavami, special pujas, Homa, and Purnahuti rituals were conducted with religious solemnity. The day’s events concluded with a grand orchestra performance, adding to the evening’s excitement.
The five-day festival culminated on Vijaya Dashami with the grand Ravana Dahan, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The ceremonial burning of the towering effigy of Ravana drew thousands of spectators, marking a spectacular end to the celebrations.
Overall, the five-day event witnessed participation from nearly 15,000 devotees and visitors, while the grand finale on Vijaya Dashami alone attracted an estimated 30,000 people. The remarkable turnout underscored the festival’s deep cultural significance and highlighted UAIL’s strong relationship with its neighboring communities.
The occasion was graced by Mr. Mazharullah Beig, President and Unit Head of Aditya Alumina Refinery, who joined the celebrations and extended festive greetings to the gathering. Mr. Anupam Acharya, Tahsildar of Kashipur, along with other dignitaries, was also present.
The successful organization of the festivities was coordinated by Mr. Narayan Mitra, Functional Head – HR, alongside Mr. Kiran Nayak, Col. Devee Sahoo, Mr. Pradyumna Tripathy, Mr. Belakar Naik, Mr. Tanmay Bhoi, and other team members. The event also received valuable support from local law enforcement, including Mr. Nilakantha Behera, IIC Doraguda; Mr. Sivji Das, IIC Andrakanch; Mr. Arun Patra, SI; and their teams.
Their dedicated efforts ensured the smooth and safe conduct of all proceedings.
Through its annual Durga Puja celebrations, UAIL continues to uphold rich cultural traditions and strengthen community engagement. The inclusive festivities provided a shared platform for cultural expression, social cohesion, and mutual celebration across the region.
