Phulbani, Oct 16: As most parts of Odisha await the chill of winter, Kandhamal district has begun to feel its first seasonal touch. The town of Phulbani woke up to a thick blanket of fog, marking the onset of winter. Residents embraced the cool air with morning yoga, music, and exercise, turning the foggy dawn into a celebration of wellness.

Foggy Mornings, Chilly Vibes

Due to prolonged rainfall, winter arrived late this year. While the chill isn’t intense yet, the fog has added a scenic charm to Phulbani. Locals say the usual tourist rush is missing, but the joy of early winter is still palpable. From youth to elders, people gathered at Coronation ground to enjoy group workouts, yoga sessions, and rhythmic dance exercises to music.

 Fitness with Fun

Residents like Sujata Das and Reshma Behera shared how the community is using the weather to stay fit and inspired. “Dancing to music while exercising keeps us healthy and happy,” said one participant. The initiative has become a source of motivation for others in the town.

Nature Beckons Tourists

Despite the slow start of the season, locals believe tourist footfall will rise as winter deepens. Popularly known as the Kashmir of Odisha, Daringibadi in Kandhamal and the district's natural beauty—waterfalls, coffee gardens, pine forests, and winding jungle roads—remain a major attraction. Senior citizens emphasized the importance of morning exercise in the district’s clean, oxygen-rich environment.