Redhakhol/Sambalpur, Jan 31: The Bhima Bhoi Lok Mahotsav 2026 in Redhakhol was inaugurated with a special video message from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who emphasized the need to take the humanitarian philosophy of saint-poet Bhima Bhoi to the international stage.

Union Minister Pradhan described Redhakhol as a land of knowledge, devotion, and culture, enriched by the legacy of the Bhima Mandali, which preserves traces of human civilization dating back over 10,000 years. He highlighted the spiritual significance of the region, calling it the land of “two Bhimas” – the mythological warrior Bhimasena, symbolizing valor and justice, and saint-poet Bhima Bhoi, who spread Mahima Dharma and awakened self-respect among marginalized communities.

The Union Education Minister noted that the festival is not just a platform for culture and folk art but a reflection of Odia identity and pride. He stressed that the event would strengthen Redhakhol’s spiritual identity while boosting tourism.

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Dharmendra Pradhan also outlined several development projects recently launched in the region. Over ₹245 crore worth of initiatives were inaugurated on Good Governance Day, including a new building for the Sub-Divisional Hospital and a Trauma Care Centre for 24x7 emergency services. He added that a bypass road for National Highway-55 has been proposed to ease traffic congestion.

In education, Redhakhol will see the establishment of a PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya from the next academic year, alongside the newly built Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya. A Boeing Sukanya STEM Lab has been set up at Goura Chandra High School to provide aerospace-related training, particularly encouraging girls to pursue scientific innovation.

Quoting Bhima Bhoi’s famous humanitarian verse, Union Education Minister Pradhan linked it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. He urged students to see themselves as modern “Vishwakarmas” and draw inspiration from historic sites like Khinda, Kudopali, and the Bhima Mandali to contribute to a “Developed Redhakhol” and “Developed Odisha.”